Plumbing Tips for Pet Owners: Keeping Tails Wagging and Drains Flowing

Bathe Pets Responsibly

• The Issue: Pet hair can clog drains during bath time.
• The Fix: Use a drain strainer when bathing your pet to catch hair and debris. Consider brushing your pet before a bath to remove loose fur.

No Litter in the Toilet

• The Issue: Flushing cat litter, even if it’s labeled “flushable,” can lead to severe blockages.
• The Fix: Always dispose of cat litter in the trash. It’s better for your plumbing and the environment.

Protect Exposed Pipes

• The Issue: Curious pets might chew on exposed pipes or plumbing lines, leading to leaks.
• The Fix: Use protective wraps or covers for any exposed pipes. Consider using bitter-tasting sprays designed to deter pets from chewing.

Keep Water Bowls Full

• The Issue: Pets might get tempted to drink from toilets if their water bowls are empty.
• The Fix: Ensure your pet’s water bowl is always full. Not only is toilet water unsanitary for pets, but they might also accidentally knock over items into the bowl.

Watch Out for Digging Dogs

• The Issue: Dogs that love to dig might damage underground pipes in your yard.
• The Fix: Regularly check your yard for any signs of leaks. Consider creating a designated digging zone for your dog, away from any plumbing lines.

Dispose of Fish Tank Water Properly

• The Issue: Emptying fish tanks directly into sinks or toilets can introduce debris and gravel into your plumbing system.
• The Fix: Use a filter when emptying the tank to catch any solid particles. Never flush fish, dead or alive, down the toilet.

Pet-Proof Faucets

• The Issue: Some pets, especially cats, are known to play with faucets, leading to wastage of water.
• The Fix: Consider installing faucet covers or use faucets with lever handles that are harder for pets to operate.

Store Pet Food Properly

• The Issue: Spilled pet food can find its way into drains and cause blockages.
• The Fix: Store pet food in sealed containers and clean up any spills immediately.

Conclusion

Pets bring immense joy to our lives, but they can also introduce unique challenges when it comes to maintaining our homes. By following these plumbing tips, you can ensure that your Brooklyn home remains free of plumbing issues, leaving you more time to enjoy with your furry friend. However, if you encounter any persistent problems, don’t hesitate to call a plumber for professional assistance. After all, a happy pet and a well-maintained home make for a purr-fect combination!