Your pets are sometimes a lot smarter than you think that they are, aren’t they? And, if they really want something, they can also be pretty sneaky when it comes to ways of getting it. Unfortunately, some of the things that they want aren’t good for them or you.
Your plumbing is definitely something that you don’t want your pets to mess with. Here are a few ways to protect your plumbing from both your pets and from some of the other things that go along with having them.
#1 Hair Traps
If you are in the habit of bathing your pets in the bathtub, a hair stopper is a must-have, especially if they shed a lot. All of that hair will eventually end up clogging your pipes if it continually goes down the drain. If it’s possible, it’s always a better idea for both you and your pet if the baths happen outside.
#2 Exposed Pipes
Having pipes that your pets can get to can potentially lead to disaster, especially if they tend to chew or scratch a lot. And, if they are messing with a hot water pipe, breaking through it can easily scald them. Exposed pipes are never a good idea if you have pets.
#3 Cat Litter
Even if the container says that it’s flushable, dumping cat litter down a drain or trying to flush it in your toilet isn’t a good idea. More likely than not, over time, continually putting litter down drains will cause clogs and backups.
#4 Digging
Some dogs really get into digging. And, the bigger the hole, the better it is for them. But, if they dig too deep, there is always a possibility that they could hit underground pipes. Then, the fun really starts when they try to dig the pipes out of the ground. It’s a good idea to keep digging to a minimum to protect your plumbing.
#5 Toilet Lids
To some dogs and even some cats, the water in your toilet is perfectly acceptable to them as a refreshing beverage. But, if they happen to have something else in their mouth when they approach the toilet, there’s always the risk of it landing in the water. And, accidentally flushing a cat toy or dog bone down your toilet will most certainly cause a problem.
If their water bowls are full, they’ll be less likely to go for the toilet. Just in case, keep the lid closed anyway. It’s also protecting them from ingesting any harmful cleaning residue that could still be in the water. Plus, it’s gross. They’re gonna try to kiss you with that face.
#6 Floor Drains
There needs to be some sort of covered trap in place over any floor drains in your home if you have pets. These types of drains are most commonly found in basements and can be large enough for a small animal to fall into or trip on.
It all comes down to being a responsible home owner and keeping your investment, your family, and your pets safe. It’s always better to be proactive when thinking about home safety. The safety of your plumbing and your pets is no exception. With just a few easy fixes, you can easily protect your plumbing from your pets.