Nichole,
 
There are many water receptacles that you could change to.  I honestly
would grow tired of being scared awake by a choking ferret.  I would
simply change water bottles or change to using a bowl.  I for one use
both a water bottle and a large ceramic bowl for water.  The ferrets seem
to use both equally fine.  I think the easiest solution to your problem
is a change of receptacles.  Then you could get a good nights sleep.
 
Mike & the Lil Devils
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FurryLilDevils/
 
"If your afraid of being judgmental, then you probably already are."
[Posted in FML issue 3869]