10 Pet-Proof Plumbing Tips for Pet Owners
We all love our four-legged friends, but many homeowners are unaware of the number of plumbing issues that pet ownership can lead to in their homes. We’ve all heard of childproofing our homes, but it’s just as essential to protect our fur babies and homes by pet-proofing our plumbing. In this article, we’ll provide ten pet-proof plumbing tips for pet owners based on our professional experience at Sacramento Plumbing Solutions.
How to Pet-Proof Your Home Plumbing for Pet Ownership
Creating a safe environment for your pets and protecting your home from a plumbing problem is simple. The following list of proactive steps to pet-proof your home plumbing system that will save you from untimely damage and expensive repairs.
1. Water Bowl Location Matters
Many dog owners place their pet’s bowl in the kitchen, often under sinks and counters, right next to exposed pipes and the garbage disposal. While this location may be convenient, it can be problematic. If your dog is a messy drinker, or the bowl is constantly being knocked over, the surface beneath may absorb moisture, leading to water damage and unwanted mold growth. A simple solution is to invest in a no-slip bowl and place it away from plumbing-prone areas where canine clumsiness isn’t a problem. Likewise, if you have wood flooring, we recommend purchasing a water bowl mat to avoid damage over time.
2. Avoid Clogged Drains Due to Pet Hair
Pet owners are all too familiar with the perennial pet hair battle. It’s often said that pets have two shedding seasons per year: January to June and June to January. While shedding is a nuisance for carpets and furniture, it’s even more problematic when it enters your plumbing system. Regular grooming can prevent clogged drains, so we recommend regularly brushing your pet outside the house, away from open drains. Indoors, consider installing drain covers in your sinks and tubs to trap hair and save you from an unwanted plumbing project in the future.
3. Keep the Toilet Lid Closed
If you have cats, you know about their notorious fascination for toilets. If you own dogs, you know how delicious they find toilet water. Not only is it unhygienic for your pets to explore and drink from the toilet bowl, but cleaning chemicals make it a toxic choice. Likewise, pet toys can get flushed, especially if you have small children, leading to significant blockages. Childproof locks aren’t just helpful if you have children. They’re excellent for pet owners, too. Placing these locks on toilet lids can keep them firmly closed against curious creatures.
4. Protect Outdoor Spigots and Hoses
A playful puppy might see an outdoor hose as the perfect chew toy or a spigot as an ideal teething soother. In both cases, damage that might not be immediately visible can occur, leading to leaks and the need for irrigation repair over time. Spend time ensuring your outdoor spigots are secure with protective covers and lockable handles, and keep hoses stored away when you aren’t using them.
5. Stop Digging Before You Have a Deeper Problem
We all know how much dogs love digging, and some might have seen their cats doing it, too. While this is a natural behavior, it creates risks for exposed pipes that sharp claws can easily damage. Training your pet to quit their digging habits, moving it to a specific section of the yard, or providing them with digging toys can help. Consider installing decorative barriers around your plumbing lines to deter digging in those areas.
6. DO NOT Flush Cat Litter, Even if it’s “Flushable”
It might be convenient to flush cat litter and other pet waste, but this is a disaster waiting to happen. Most litters clump and expand when wet, even if labeled as “flushable,” leading to severe clogs. Your plumbing is designed for human waste. The safest way to avoid toilet repairs and ensure your plumbing remains clear and functional is to dispose of cat litter in the trash. Bonus points if you can train them to use the toilet instead of a litter box.
7. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
The hazards of chemical drain cleaners are becoming more evident by the day. Aside from the harm they do to the environment, these cleaners pose severe threats to pets. Even the residue left on your toilet bowl can be dangerous if your pet drinks it. Consider using natural or non-chemical solutions to unclog your drains, or better yet, call a professional from Sacramento Plumbing Solutions.
8. Protect Pipes from Chewing
We all know rodents will chew through pipes, but even some larger pets might find exposed pipes to be an attractive chew toy. Stop them from chewing by keeping visible pipes off-limits or using safe deterrents like bitter sprays. Also, be sure to complete regular inspections to ensure there are no signs of damage.
9. Install Pressure Balancing Valves
Bathing pets can be an ordeal, and sudden temperature changes can make it even more stressful. Protect your pets from sudden scalding by installing a reliable water heater and pressure balancing valves. It’s a win-win for both you and your furry friend.
10. Protect Pets from Sump Pumps, and Sump Pumps from Pets
Sump pumps help divert water away from homes, and curious pets might find these areas enticing, risking injury or disrupting the pump’s operation. A simple step to ensure the safety of your pet and the functionality of your sump pump is to install a durable, pet-proof cover over your sump pit.
We’ll Ensure Your Home Plumbing is Fully Pet-Proof
Pet-proofing your plumbing is an essential step for all pet owners. Not only does it ensure the well-being of your furry friends, but it also saves you potential hassles and expenses in the future. For more advice or services tailored to homes with pets, don’t hesitate to schedule a free plumbing inspection with Sacramento Plumbing Solutions.
