We may love our pets, but your drains definitely don’t love the excess of fur! Pet proofing your household and plumbing can keep your pet safe while preventing major plumbing damage. Pets can add an extra strain to a variety of household plumbing fixtures. Here are a few tips to help pet proof your plumbing:

Bath Time

Rinse those dirty pets off outside before coming in for bath time. The outside pre-rinse will help remove mud and matted fur that can result in a clogged drain. Once in the tub, use a stopper or strainer to catch additional fur and dirt from going down the drain. These simple steps during bath time will go a long way in preventing slow and clogged drains from muddy fur build up.

Avoid the Toilet Watering Hole

Animals are notorious for drinking out of the toilet, and it may be funny to watch, but… toilets can be home to lots of germs and bacteria, and cleaning chemicals can leave residue in the bowl. We don’t want our furry friends sick and at the vet just because they were thirsty! Make sure they have access to fresh water and prevent them from drinking the toilet water by keeping the lids closed. Another important note is to NEVER dispose of cat litter down the toilet. Cat litter can cause clogged toilets and back up the bathroom plumbing.

Pet Proofing Your Home

Both pets and household residents can benefit from proactively maintaining safety habits around the house. Take note of these preventative measures:

• Cover exposed pipes and wires around the house so pets don’t bite or chew on them.
• Keep harmful chemicals, such as cleaners or pesticides, out of reach of both pets and children.
• Make sure your dog isn’t digging holes in the backyard that could damage water or sewer lines.

These tips can help assure that your pets and plumbing are safe from accidents, and prevent a curious pet from suddenly requiring veterinary attention.

If your beloved pet has caused a major plumbing issue or you need assistance with pet proofing your home, contact our professional plumbing company. We can help you and your pet remain comfortable and enjoy what really matters – your time together!