As a pet owner, your furry friends bring plenty of joy—but they can also bring unexpected plumbing challenges. From pet hair clogging your drains to curious paws flushing things down the toilet, your plumbing system might be under more strain than you realize. To help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home pet-friendly, here are some essential plumbing tips for pet owners.
How to Protect Your Pipes and Drains: Pet Owner Plumbing Tips
1. Brush Before Bathing
Pet hair is one of the leading causes of drain clogs, especially when bathing pets in your tub or sink. To prevent plumbing issues:
Brush your pet before bath time to remove loose fur.
Use a drain cover or hair trap to catch any hair that does make its way into the tub.
This simple step can save you from dealing with stubborn clogs later.
2. Keep an Eye on What They Flush
Pets are naturally curious, and some have a habit of playing with objects near the toilet. If an item accidentally falls into the bowl, your furry friend might nudge it further down. Avoid flushing these common culprits:
- Pet toys
- Bedding or grooming items
- Clumps of fur
Make it a habit to keep the toilet lid closed to prevent your pet from turning it into their personal playground.
3. Be Mindful of Pet Food Disposal
Pet food, especially dry kibble, can expand when exposed to water. If flushed down the sink or garbage disposal, it can clog your pipes over time.
- Dispose of pet food in the trash rather than the sink.
- Consider composting leftover pet food, if possible, to reduce waste.
4. Protect Outdoor Plumbing
Pets that spend time outdoors can unintentionally interfere with your plumbing system. Here’s how to avoid common outdoor issues:
- Cover exposed pipes: Pets may chew on them out of curiosity.
- Inspect garden hoses: Make sure your pet hasn’t bitten or damaged them, which could lead to leaks.
- Supervise digging: If your dog loves to dig, ensure they’re not near underground pipes or sprinkler systems.
5. Install a Pet-Friendly Faucet
If you frequently bathe your pet, consider upgrading to a faucet with a handheld sprayer. This makes rinsing easier and more efficient, while also reducing the likelihood of water splashing out and causing messes. Plus, you’ll save water by targeting specific areas instead of letting the tap run unnecessarily.
6. Monitor Water Bowl Placement
Water bowls can sometimes spill or overflow, especially if your pet is playful. Repeated water exposure can weaken nearby cabinetry, flooring, or plumbing fixtures.
- Use a spill-proof water bowl to minimize messes.
- Place bowls on a waterproof mat to protect surfaces.
7. Schedule Regular Drain Maintenance
Even with precautions, pet-related plumbing issues can still arise over time. Regular drain cleaning ensures your pipes stay free from clogs and buildup caused by pet hair or other debris. Consider scheduling routine maintenance with a professional plumber to keep everything in tip-top shape.
Why Choose 24/7 Best Emergency Services for Your Plumbing Needs?
At 24/7 Best Emergency Services, we understand the unique plumbing challenges pet owners face. Our team of expert plumbers is here to help with everything from unclogging drains to installing pet-friendly plumbing solutions. With 24/7 availability, you can count on us to keep your home safe and your plumbing running smoothly.
Call Us Today!
Whether you need assistance with a stubborn clog or want to upgrade your home’s plumbing to make it more pet-friendly, we’re here to help. Call 24/7 Best Emergency Services at 020 3318 8667 or visit our Contact Us page to book a service today.