Have you ever thought about how your furry friends might affect your plumbing system? Pets are lovable, but their curious habits can lead to plumbing problems. From clogged drains to chewed-up pipes, issues caused by pets are more common than you might think.
Luckily, with a little planning and these five simple tips, you can avoid costly repairs. These tips will keep your home running smoothly while ensuring your pets stay safe.
Prevent Hair Clogs with a Drain Strainer
Pets shed much more than we realize. Even short-haired pets like pugs or tabby cats lose a surprising amount of fur during bath time. All that hair can clog your drains. This can lead to slow water flow or even complete blockages.
- Tip: Use a drain strainer to catch pet hair before it enters your plumbing. A strainer is affordable and easy to use. It can save you from expensive professional drain cleaning.
- Example: A dog owner found her golden retriever’s bath left clumps of hair in the tub. Over time, this hair clogged the drain completely. Installing a drain strainer fixed the problem instantly. Now, cleaning up after every bath is much easier.
Secure Exposed Pipes and Cover Open Drains
Pets are naturally curious. Puppies and kittens especially love to explore. They often chew on anything they find, including exposed pipes. Open drains can also trap smaller pets like hamsters or ferrets.
- Tip: Wrap exposed pipes with protective material. Alternatively, block them with heavy furniture. Use drain covers for sinks and floor drains to keep your pets safe. Chew toys can also help redirect your pet’s attention.
- Example: A kitten got stuck in an uncovered floor drain while exploring the laundry room. The owner quickly covered the drain to prevent future mishaps. This simple fix gave her peace of mind.
Be Mindful of What You Flush
Not everything labeled “flushable” is safe for your plumbing. Products like cat litter or pet wipes can create major blockages. Even flushing pet waste can cause serious plumbing issues.
- Tip: Always dispose of pet waste and litter in the trash. Never flush them down the toilet. Clean your pet’s litter box often to prevent odors and mess.
- Example: A cat owner used to flush clumping litter. This habit eventually led to a backed-up plumbing system. Switching to proper disposal methods saved her from an expensive plumber visit.
Adjust Water Temperature and Pressure During Bath Time
Pet bath time can be challenging. The high water pressure might overwhelm your pet. Temperatures that are too hot or cold can also harm them.
- Tip: Install a balancing valve to stabilize water temperature and pressure. Always test the water before bathing your pet. If the water feels too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet. Adjust the water pressure to a gentler flow to keep your pet calm.
- Example: A pet parent found her anxious dachshund much calmer during baths after adjusting the water flow. Making this small change turned bath time into a much smoother experience.
Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Some pets drink from toilets or sink faucets if their water bowls aren’t full. This wastes water and can strain your pipes. It’s even worse if your pet learns to turn on the taps by themselves.
- Tip: Refill your pet’s water bowl regularly. Keep it in the same place to make it easy for your pet to find. Always close toilet lids and bathroom doors to stop sneaky sips.
- Example: A thirsty Labrador kept turning on the bathroom faucet. This habit caused higher water bills and pipe strain. The owner placed a large, always-filled water bowl in the kitchen. This simple fix solved the problem.
Bonus Tip: Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular plumbing maintenance is essential for pet owners. Over time, small issues caused by pets—like fur buildup or chewed pipes—can escalate into major problems. Scheduling routine check-ups can catch these issues early and save you money.
Conclusion: Happy Pets, Healthy Pipes
Your pets bring love and joy into your home. But they can also bring unique challenges to your plumbing. By following these simple tips, you can avoid pet-related plumbing problems. At the same time, you’ll ensure your furry friends stay safe.
From using drain strainers to keeping your pet hydrated, a little preparation goes a long way.
Need professional help with plumbing issues? Jet-4-Les offers expert camera inspection and hydrojetting services. Our solutions keep your pipes clear and your home worry-free.
