Plumbing Tips for Pet Owners

As a pet owner, you know that your furry friend is part of the family. But did you know that your pet can also have an impact on your plumbing? From hair clogs to dirty paws tracking in mud and dirt, pets can be tough on pipes and fixtures. Fortunately, there are a few simple things you can do to keep your plumbing in top shape, even with a pet in the house.

Here are a few plumbing tips for pet owners:

Bath time

When you bathe your pet, all that fur can end up going down the drain and causing a clog. To prevent this, use a drain stopper or strainer to catch any wayward hairs before they have a chance to cause problems. Also, try wiping down the tub after your baths to remove any loose hairs.

Paws off the fixtures: Those dirty paws can track in all kinds of grime, including mud, dirt and even feces. To keep your fixtures clean and your plumbing healthy, make sure your pet stays away from them.

Safe water pressure

Your pet is part of the family, so you want to make sure they're comfortable at all times. That includes when they're taking a dip in the tub. The key to keeping your pet comfortable is getting the temperature just right. Too much pressure can make the water too hot or cold for them, so always test it before you get in yourself. You can also install a balancing valve to help regulate the pressure. That way, your pet can enjoy a relaxing bath time.

Use caution at the flusher

If you've ever found your cat reaching into the toilet bowl, it may be for a drink! While you might not mind if your furry friend takes a sip, your pipes could start to have problems. That's because when cats stick their paws into the toilet, they can track litter into the bowl. Over time, this could lead to a clog. So, what can you do to dissuade your cat from using the toilet as a water bowl? One option is to keep the bathroom door closed. You may also want to try a pet drinking fountain that's designed to attract cats. And whatever you do, don't flush pet waste or litter down the toilet. Even if a product says it's "flushable," it could still cause problems for your pipes. So, it's best to play it safe and scoop the litter box instead.

Digging

Digging is an instinct for dogs. They love to bury their noses in the dirt and smell all the interesting smells. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to problems with your plumbing. If you have a dog that likes to dig, it's important to be vigilant and pay attention to what your pet is up to. If your dog is persistent and forceful when digging, there is a chance that it could punch a hole in a water or sewer pipe. Fortunately, this is not very likely to happen. However, you should still exercise caution when you see your dog digging.

Exposed pipes

Exposed pipes are not only unsightly, but they can also be dangerous for your furry friend. If you have a dog that likes to chew, exposed pipes are the perfect size and temperature for them to gnaw on. This can lead to costly repairs if your pet damages the pipe. To avoid this, keep your pipes concealed and out of reach of your furry friend.

In addition to being a chew toy, exposed pipes can also be a source of water contamination. If your pet has access to the pipe, they could drink dirty water that contains harmful bacteria. This could lead to serious health problems for your pet. To protect them, keep your pipes hidden and out of reach.

Making sure the water dish is full

The water dish is one of the first things to check when coming home or waking up, but sometimes our pets become so overexcited that they make a mess, leaving them without any water. If your pet's water dish runs out of water and they get thirsty, they will start to look for other sources of water in the house. If your pet is clever enough and learned how to turn on the faucet, it's important to be extra diligent about making sure the sink is clear of any obstacles. Otherwise, you could end up with a flooded house or an astronomically high-water bill. So, keep an eye on your pet and make sure they stay hydrated—but not too hydrated! Here are a few things you can do to prevent them from doing so. One is to keep the bathroom door closed, or any other room where there is a potential water source. Another is to invest in a pet water fountain, which will give your pet access to fresh, running water without the risk of them making a mess. Whatever method you choose, just make sure that your pet always has access to fresh water, so they stay hydrated and healthy!

Prevention is key when it comes to plumbing problems and keeping your pets safe in your home. By taking a few simple precautions, you can save yourself a lot of time, money, and stress. So, make sure to keep your bathroom door closed, invest in a pet water fountain, and always have fresh water available for your furry friend. With just a little effort, you can keep your home plumbing safe and sound – and your pet happy and healthy. Don't worry if you run into any plumbing problems, Duncan Plumbing has got your back.