Top Plumbing Tips for Pet Owners

While we adore our furry companions, they don’t always mix well with plumbing. From shedding fur that clogs drains to playing with pipes, pets can unknowingly cause plumbing system damage that bites your wallet.

You should save your hard-earned money for more dog treats and fewer emergency plumbing repair bills. By following a few simple plumbing tips, you can keep your home's fixtures and pipes in good condition — even with rambunctious pets. Learn more about common pet-related plumbing issues and easy ways to prevent them.

How Pets Can Affect Your Plumbing

Pet hair and cat litter are two of the most common culprits when it comes to plumbing problems. Dog and cat hair can build up in sink and bathtub drains. When a drain is clogged with pet hair, you'll experience slow draining or even a complete blockage. 

Cat litter, especially clumping varieties, expands when wet and can create major clogs in pipes. Even "flushable" litter isn’t always safe for your plumbing system, which is why you should never throw cat litter down the drain.

Over time, these issues can lead to slow drains, backups, and even pipe damage. Proper prevention — like knowing how to prevent a drain clog — can save you from expensive plumbing repairs.

How to Prevent Pet Hair from Going Down The Drain

Whether you’re bathing your dog or rinsing out a pet bed, hair can quickly build up in pipes. Here's how to keep dog hair from going down the drain.

1. Use a Drain Cover or Hair Catcher

Installing a drain cover or hair catcher is an easy way to keep pet hair from entering your plumbing system. These inexpensive devices trap hair before it reaches your pipes, making cleanup simple. Look for a fine-mesh catcher designed specifically for pet hair.

2. Brush Pets Before Bathing

Brushing your pet before bath time removes loose hair, reducing the amount that ends up in the drain. This simple step is one of the best ways to stop dog hair from going down the drain, especially for breeds that shed heavily.

3. Bathe Pets Outside When Possible

If the weather allows, washing your furry friends outside prevents hair from entering your home’s plumbing system altogether. Using a kiddie pool or hose is a great way to keep your pet clean while avoiding potential drain issues.

Can Cat Litter Go Down the Drain?

You should never throw cat litter down the drain, or you could face some serious plumbing woes.

Cat litter is designed to absorb liquid. When this happens, it expands. If you throw cat litter down your drain, it could expand in your drainage pipes and create a blockage that completely cuts off the flow of waste. Even cat litter designed to be flushable can accumulate in sewer systems, causing backups over time.

The best way to dispose of cat litter is to place it in a sealed trash bag and discard it with your regular garbage. Your drainage system will thank you. 

Protecting Pipes from Curious Pets

Some pets have a natural curiosity for things they shouldn’t, including your home’s plumbing. Chewing, scratching, and even drinking from toilets can lead to damage or blockages. Taking a few precautions can help keep your pipes safe from your four-legged friends.

1. Cover or Secure Exposed Pipes

Some pets, especially puppies and kittens with a lot of energy, love to chew on exposed pipes. This can lead to leaks or even burst pipes. Use protective covers or secure exposed piping with insulation to prevent damage.

2. Keep Toilet Lids Closed

Many pets are drawn to drinking water from the toilet, but this habit can lead to plumbing issues. Keeping the lid closed prevents pets from getting fur in the water and stops small animals from falling in.

What to Do If Your Drain Is Clogged with Pet Hair

Preventative measures are great — but what if you're already facing a drain clogged with pet hair? Consider these plumbing tips for unclogging drains:

• Hot water and dish soap: Pour a mixture of hot water and dish soap down the drain to break up grease and hair buildup.
• Plunger: A plunger can help dislodge hair clogs in sinks and tubs.
• Drain snake: A drain snake or auger can remove deeper blockages caused by accumulated pet hair.

If none of these troubleshooting steps work, then you may need to call in a plumber for a professional drain cleaning.

Pet-Friendly Plumbing Maintenance

Taking proactive steps to protect your plumbing from pet-related damage can save you time and money. Regular drain maintenance, using hair catchers, and keeping cat litter out of pipes can prevent most common issues.

If you notice recurring clogs or slow drains, consider scheduling a professional plumbing inspection. Roto-Rooter plumbers can inspect your plumbing system, troubleshoot problems with advanced equipment, and get your drains working as good as new. Get started by scheduling your appointment with a Roto-Rooter professional today.