As a dog or cat owner, you have probably pet-proofed your home to make it safe and functional for your furry friend. However, you may have overlooked some things regarding your plumbing system. To avoid pet-related clogs and other complications, follow these plumbing tips all pet owners should know.

Plumber fixing the tap on bathtub at Houston, TX

Close the Toilet Lid

Even under the cleanest conditions, toilet water isn’t exactly hygienic. Plus, if you use an automatic toilet bowl cleaner, chemical residue likely clings to the bowl. For these reasons, drinking from the toilet could make your pet sick. If you’re not already in the habit of closing the lid, start now so your pet isn’t tempted.

Provide Plenty of Water

Hydration is equally important for animals as it is for humans. If your pet’s bowl goes dry, they may take extreme measures to find water. Some pets are even clever enough to lift the toilet lid or turn on a faucet. At the very least, this can run up your water bill. And at the worst, it can cause water damage.

Keep your pet happy and healthy and avoid potential plumbing problems by topping off their water bowl throughout the day. Better yet, consider investing in a pet drinking fountain. Many animals love drinking from flowing water, so this investment should help them leave your sinks and toilets alone.

Use a Tub Strainer

Your furry friend is an important part of your life, but all that fur can prove problematic if you bathe your dog in the bathtub. Prevent clogs by using the drain stopper while lathering up. Then, place a mesh strainer or washcloth over the drain to catch all that dog hair as the water flows away.

Test the Water Temperature at Bath Time

Similar to bathing a child, you should monitor the water temperature when drawing a bath for your pet. In short, if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your furry friend. Also, pay attention to the water pressure. Rinsing off your dog with a high-pressure jet of water could spook them and make bath time miserable for both of you.

Protect Exposed Pipes

Pets enjoy chewing and rubbing against things, including exposed pipes and radiators. If your home has these features, cover or block them off to deter your cat or dog from getting too close. This plumbing tip for pet owners can save you a trip to the vet and avoid costly plumbing problems and water damage.

Discourage Backyard Digging

Water and sewer lines are often buried less than 2 feet deep. This could prove problematic if Fido loves digging. Your dog shouldn’t be strong enough to damage underground pipes, but you still don’t want your plumbing exposed to the elements. Train your dog not to bury bones or dig in the yard, and you’ll preserve your underground utilities along with your lawn.

Rinse off Outside

After adventuring outside with your pup, you may be eager to get home and shower. Not so fast—before you head inside, remember to rinse off your dog with a garden hose or outdoor shower if you have one. This is a better option than sending mud and grass down the bathtub drain, which could cause a clog.

Don’t Flush Clumping Kitty Litter

The idea behind clumping litter is to make scooping the litter box fast and easy. However, litter belongs in the trash, not the toilet. Flushing clay-based litter and cat waste is a recipe for clogs. Plumbers even caution against flushing “flushable” kitty litter. So play it safe, and dispose of your cat’s waste in the trash.

Install Drain Covers

If you have an unfinished basement, chances are you have at least one floor drain. Make sure the drain is properly covered so your cat or dog’s paws, or small pets like hamsters, don’t fall in. This simple preventative measure makes you feel more comfortable having your pets come down to the basement with you.

Store Cleaning Supplies Securely

Kitchen and bathroom cleaning supplies keep your sinks and counters sanitary, but they can be dangerous for pets. Drain openers are particularly toxic for humans and animals alike. Plumbers advise against treating clogged drains with chemicals, but if you have any products like this in your cleaning closet, store them out of reach to reduce the risk of your pet finding and ingesting them.

Schedule Plumbing Services in Houston

At Redfin Plumbing, we provide comprehensive plumbing services, from installations and repairs to drain cleaning and emergency service. Whether your plumbing woes are pet-related or not, we’re happy to help. Our team is committed to providing exceptional quality and ensuring your 100% satisfaction, so you can call us with confidence! Reach out at 346-319-5342 or contact us online to request plumbing services in Houston, Cypress, Katy, Sugarland, Pearland, the Woodlands, Kingwood, and the surrounding Greater Houston area.