Can Rabbits Swim?

Yes, both domestic and wild bunnies are physiologically capable of paddling in water using coordinated limb movements, but swimming is a survival behavior—not a recreational one, says Susan Tyson, VMD, a veterinarian and owner of Avian & Exotic Philly Vet Medical Surgical Clinic in Philadelphia.  

Rabbits swim in high-stress, emergency situations, such as to get away from a predator or to escape from flooding. So, they should never be placed in water. 

Although you may come across videos of rabbits swimming, they generally don’t like to swim and it should be avoided. Even putting them under a faucet for a bath can be incredibly stressful. 

“While wild rabbits, like marsh rabbits and swamp rabbits, might swim to escape predators or navigate their habitats, it’s generally not recommended to let pet rabbits swim,” Dr. Tyson says. 

If a bunny is forced to swim, this can lead to intense stress, hypothermia, shock, and even death.  

Despite other kinds of pets having an affinity for water and swimming, rabbits would rather be binkying indoors with their favorite toys or snuggled up in your arms. 

Here are the most common reasons rabbits and water don’t mix: 

“Rabbits are prey animals with a natural instinct of flight rather than fight or to ‘freeze’ from fear,” says Sophie Trowbridge, DVM, veterinary resident at Avian and Exotic Animal Clinic in Indianapolis.  

Forcing a rabbit to swim “may cause shock, panic, arrhythmias, and even cardiac arrest,” she says.  

A rabbit in water will likely be frightened and try to escape—fast. Since bunnies have fragile bones, this could result in a serious injury. 

“Panicked rabbits thrash around in the water, potentially injuring themselves by hitting objects or fracturing limbs or their spine and increasing their risk of drowning,” Dr. Tyson says. 

Rabbits have a thick, dense coat of fur that’s slow to dry. This traps water against the skin and can lead to a dangerous drop in body temperature, especially in cold water. 

A rabbit’s regular internal body temperature is 101.5–104.2 F; a human’s normal body temperature is 97–99 F. 

Even if water feels warm to the touch, the actual temperature difference can be drastic for rabbits, Dr. Trowbridge says. This can lead to hypothermia, which can be life-threatening. 

Another risk to consider is pneumonia. Rabbits can quickly develop pneumonia if water enters their nasal cavity while attempting to swim, Dr. Trowbridge adds. 

If a rabbit is in a pool, tub, or sink, water can get in their ears and cause severe ear infections. Additionally, wet fur can result in dermatitis and other skin infections. 

Rabbits are lightweight and delicate, with anatomy that isn’t appropriate for efficient swimming. Their short limbs and torso may force them to work extremely hard to stay afloat.  

Their muscles are built for rapidly evading predators rather than endurance activities, Dr. Trowbridge says. 

“If swimming in a pool, the chemicals present, like chlorine, can irritate a rabbit’s eyes, skin, and respiratory system,” Dr. Tyson says. 

Even though rabbit swimming isn’t a good activity, there are many safe alternatives that your bun is bound to love.  

Buy some rabbit hay or willow balls, stuff in some parsley or another treat, and let them have a blast. You can also do this with paper rolls and paper bags.  

Rabbit tunnels are an essential part of any bunny’s floor time—and they come in a rainbow of colors.  

If your rabbit isn’t free-range, they might want to see more of the world—or just your house. Get them a rabbit playpen so they can experience your home from another view.   

Get a cardboard box and stuff it with shredded paper, hay, or paper towels, and hide food inside.  

Not every rabbit will be into it, but you could try to leash-train them indoors. If things go well, they might like a safe stroll around a quiet part of the yard with you.  

Do rabbits have webbed feet? 

Yes, but the toes on their hind feet are webbed not for swimming, but to keep their feet from spreading apart as they jump. 

Should I panic if my rabbit jumps in the pool? 

If your rabbit jumps in a tub or pool, promptly remove them, Dr. Trowbridge says. Monitor them for trouble breathing or gasping, and dry them thoroughly. If anything seems off, call your vet immediately.  

Can I put my bunny in the pool? 

No. You should never put your bunny in any pool.  

What happens if a rabbit goes in the water? 

If a rabbit goes in the water it can lead to shock, which can be fatal. If they accidentally fall in, promptly pull them out.  

Do bunnies need baths? 

No. Bunnies do not need baths; instead, you can instead spot-clean them with grooming wipes or a damp warm cloth. If your rabbit is older, has chronic health conditions, or has matted fur, see a vet for a medical or sanitary groom.​  

Should you teach your bunny to swim?  

No. Rabbit swimming is not safe and they should not be allowed near any type of open water.