Happy National Pet Month! As pet lovers, we recognize that our pets are key members of our family. However, as a pet owner, you are probably well aware that pets can demand a significant amount of upkeep. Even the pets with the least demanding care can impact household maintenance. One frequently overlooked aspect of pet ownership is the effect our cherished animals can have on plumbing systems. Join your favorite local team at Gahanna Plumbing & Drain as we discuss pet safety in relation to your plumbing system.
Think About Your Pet Grooming Process
Regular grooming plays a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness of your pets and your home, helping to keep your pet and home free from parasites such as ticks and fleas. Here’s some tips to help alleviate the stress of fur buildup.
Wash Time: Bathing your pet at home is an efficient method to control odors and promote a healthy coat. Adhering to these recommendations can assist in preventing plumbing issues during bathtime.
- Installing a hand-held showerhead can simplify the process of bathing your pet. Additionally, you should think about using an outdoor pet bathtub for use during the warmer months can be beneficial.
- Utilizing a drain screen over your tub or shower drain is advisable to catch loose fur and prevent clogs in your plumbing system. These nifty contraptions are also perfect for everyday use.
Brushing Time: Regular brushing of your pets can substantially decrease shedding and the accumulation of hair in your home, including the plumbing system. Try to use a brush that best fits your pet’s fur type. Keep in mind that for pets with long fur, a bi-weekly brushing regimen is recommended to prevent tangles and maintain coat health.
Think About Your Pet Food & Pet Waste Disposal Process
Pet Food Disposal: It is important to note that dry pet food (kibble) must NOT be disposed of via the kitchen sink’s garbage disposal. Believe it or not, this is a practice many fall prey to. Dry pet food absorbs water and expands, so if it is disposed of down the sink, it could potentially cause significant blockages within the plumbing system. Furthermore, once the wet food dries, it hardens, which can definitely exacerbate the blockage issue. The best way to dispose of old pet food is by simply placing it in the garbage bin.
Kitty Litter Disposal: Pet waste is another inevitable aspect of pet ownership. If it is disposed of incorrectly, it can negatively influence the integrity of your plumbing system. Contrary to common belief among pet owners, flushing kitty litter down the toilet is not an advisable disposal method. Most kitty litter is not water-soluble, which can result in extreme blockages.
Bear in mind that even kitty litter marketed as “flushable” should not be flushed down the toilet to preserve your plumbing system’s integrity. Despite being made from biodegradable materials, flushable kitty litter only degrades over time. Consequently, your system may become clogged with undissolved clumps of litter. Stay away from flushing cat litter down the drain altogether. Your plumbing system will be all the better for it.
Other Pet Safety Tips
Toilet Water: Has your pet ever drunk out of the toilet bowl? While it is natural to be grossed out by this, it’s also important to recognize the potential dangers involved. Products such as toilet tabs, bowl stamps, rim hangers, and chemical cleaners are formulated to maintain cleanliness and freshness but contain chemicals that could be harmful to your pet. To mitigate this risk, it is advisable to keep the toilet lid closed when not in use and consider the installation of a childproof lock for extra stubborn pets.
Backyard Digging: Pets, particularly dogs, often possess a natural instinct to dig. Although this behavior may seem harmless when occurring in the yard, don’t forget that digging near the foundation of a home or around buried pipes could result in significant plumbing issues and may also pose a safety risk to the pet. If you have a digger on your hands, try to promote the use of designated pet areas for play activities. You may also. have to block off certain areas for pets that are particularly persistent.
Caring for a pet involves numerous responsibilities, including home and plumbing maintenance. Remember, a safe and harmonious home for all occupants is achievable with proactive prevention. For additional insights on home and plumbing care, we invite you to explore our other blog articles.
Should you have further inquiries or wish to arrange a consultation for a particular plumbing concern, call Gahanna Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 245-2256 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!