Six Ways to Pet-Proof Your Plumbing

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Many households across the country have pets. Dogs, cats and other creatures are considered a part of the family, so it makes sense that you would want to keep them safe and out of trouble. Pets can cause damage to a list of household fixtures, but it may come as a surprise to hear that your plumbing may be subjected to extra strain. The good news is there are things you can do to ease the worry of potential plumbing problems caused by pets.

So, what are some of the best ways to pet-proof your home’s plumbing? Let’s ask a qualified plumber in Mesa, AZ:

  • Keep pet water bowls full: You know to make fresh water readily available for pets, but not leaving out enough drinking water can be an even bigger issue. When there’s no water in their bowl, pets are known to drink out of the toilet to quench their thirst. Check water bowls several times a day and refill at least twice, and they should leave the toilet water alone.
  • Close toilet lids: If you have a pet that just won’t leave the toilet water alone even though they have water in their own bowls, it’s best to just keep toilet lids closed. Not only does this protect pets from chemical residue left behind by cleaners, but it can save smaller pets from falling in and drowning. Then there are pets like rodents and snakes that can actually make their way through plumbing pipes. In some cases, a plumber may have to tear out the wall or floor and pipes to retrieve adventurous critters.
  • Cover up floor drains: Another way that small animals can get into plumbing is through open floor drains. Remember, animals like hamsters, rats, mice and even tiny kittens and puppies can fall into the smallest drains, so make sure floor drains and other openings that lead to pipes in your home are covered securely.
  • Protect exposed pipes: Pet-proofing and childproofing a home are similar processes. Both animals and children are curious by nature, and as a result won’t hesitate to investigate pipes underneath open cabinets. Cover up these pipes to avoid an emergency trip to the vet. If your pet bites through a pipe, you could end up with a pricy problem on your hands—leaky pipes might cause water damage to your home.
  • Watch where your dog digs: Although residential sewer and water lines are supposed to be buried deep in the ground, some lines may not be far below the surface of your lawn. If your dogs like to dig, consider having a local utility technician come out and locate the lines in your yard so you know where your pup should and shouldn’t dig.
  • Take pet bath time precautions: Excess dirt, debris and fur can wreak havoc on your plumbing. If washing your pet outside is not possible, at least rinse or wipe them off before heading to the bathtub. Also use a drain stopper or strainer to catch any grime.

Need a plumber in Mesa, AZ? PlumbSmart Plumbing Heating and Air is here to help with all sorts of plumbing issues. Call us anytime with questions or to schedule an appointment!