A pet is a wonderful addition to a household, thanks to the fun and companionship they provide. However, they do require a lot of responsibility, and pet-related plumbing issues are often overlooked by homeowners. According to professional plumbers, here are a few steps you can take to protect your pipes and drains from your cats and dogs. 

3 Plumbing Tips for Pet Owners

1. Don’t Flush Kitty Litter

Though it might seem reasonable to flush cat litter, you shouldn’t do so. Toilet plumbing is not meant to handle anything beyond waste and toilet tissue. Because litter is made of highly absorbent clay and sand, it can clog pipes. Also, cat waste contains toxins that can impact your home’s water supply. Instead, dispose of kitty litter in the garbage. 

2. Use Drain Stoppers During Bathtime 

When bathing your furry friend inside a tub or sink, it’s inevitable that some hairs will come loose in the water. However, you should use drain stoppers to prevent the hair from getting into the pipes. Any residual fur left at the bottom of the bathtub should be collected with a paper towel or wipe. Like cat litter, too much fur in a drain will cause an obstruction that may require repairs from an experienced plumber. 

3. Stop Backyard Digging

It’s not unusual for some dogs to dig in the dirt when outdoors. However, they could reach shallowly buried water and sewer lines in your yard and accidentally puncture or damage them, which will require plumbing repairs. Avoid leaving dogs outside unattended and try to discourage them from digging.

If you need a professional plumber’s help correcting pet-related mistakes, reach out to the team at Quality Plumbing. As Honolulu, HI’s go-to plumbing contractor for over 10 years, these experts have the skills and tools to handle any plumbing problem, including drain cleaning, leak detection, and repairs. They also offer 24-hour emergency services to address unexpected disasters. To speak with a plumber about your needs, call (808) 384-0412 today. You can also visit their website or follow them on Facebook to learn more about their available services and additional plumbing tips.