To avoid costly repairs, you need to take proper care of your plumbing. For pet owners, this involves extra precautions to ensure your four-legged friend doesn’t undermine your diligent upkeep. Here are five tips for pet-proofing your plumbing.
1. Wash your pets outside Whether your dog has been playing in the mud or your cat needs help with hygiene, it’s best to wash them outside. If you clean your pet in the bathtub or sink, big clumps of matted fur can end up clogging the drain. Alternatively, you can use a good-quality drain stopper to keep fur out of your pipes. 2. Conceal exposed piping If your pet is keen on chewing things, pipes may look appealing, especially if they’re made of plastic (PVC) or PEX. A chewed pipe can leak or even burst, leading to costly water damage and plumbing repairs. Consider hiding your pipes with a pipe covering or skirting board. Alternatively, you can coat them in an anti-chew spray. 3. Don’t flush litter Even if your cat litter is advertised as flushable, it’s best to dispose of it in the trash. Cat litter is designed to clump when it comes in contact with liquid. If you flush it down the toilet, the litter becomes a gummy substance that can block your pipes. 4. Don’t allow digging If your dog loves to dig, this can be a problem for more than just the appearance of your lawn. Many plumbing lines run only a foot and a half below ground. If your dog is a deft digger, you could find yourself with a burst water line and a costly repair bill. 5. Keep the toilet lid closed This measure is purely for your pet’s benefit. Drinking from the toilet can be harmful for your pet, not to mention unsanitary. Even if the toilet is clean, the water may contain residue from toxic cleaning products or bleach, both of which can cause severe health disorders in animals. In addition to keeping the toilet lid closed, make sure your pet’s water bowl is always full. This will prevent your cat or dog from seeking water elsewhere, such as by licking the condensation off pipes and ducts (which can expose your pet to mould). Plumbing services in the GTA If you have a clogged drain, a broken pipe or any other plumbing issue, turn to the experienced team at Black Forest Plumbing for comprehensive plumbing services in the Greater Toronto Area. Contact us today to schedule a service call. Book A Service Appointment