As a dog or cat owner, you may be surprised to find just how much your plumbing and your pet affect each other. From extra hair in the drain to cats playing in toilets, new pet owners may be surprised by how often their animal causes an incident that requires a plumber's help. Below are a few tips to help you avoid pet-related plumbing issues.

4 Plumbing Tips for Pet Owners

1. Use Traps in Your Drains

If you have a cat or dog, you already know pet hair gets everywhere. This includes your sinks and tubs where you bathe them, which clogs drains and creates major plumbing problems. Use a trap to catch hair in any bathtubs, sinks, or showers your pet spends time in. These may require more frequent drain cleaning from a plumber, too, to ensure the hair is fully removed from the pipes.

2. Fix Leaks

Many cats are drawn to dripping faucets. Unfortunately, as they drink the water, they’ll also be lapping up any soaps and cleaners you use on your sink. Fix the drip to remove the temptation and protect their health.

3. Watch Digging Dogs

If your dog loves to dig, pay attention to where they are most curious. Your water and sewer pipes are often buried just under the surface, and an enthusiastic dog can damage them. By monitoring any digging your dog does, you can avoid having to call a plumber for emergency repairs.

4. Don’t Flush Cat Litter

Cat litter is designed to be extremely absorbent. When it is in water, it continues to soak up liquid and expand. This will clog your toilet, pipes, and possibly septic system, so even if your litter says it’s flushable, throw it away instead.

If you need help dealing with these plumbing problems, call American Rooter Sewer & Septic Service in Albany, OR. This affordable plumber provides Linn County with residential and commercial repairs, cleanings, and inspections. If you want to take advantage of their fast service and reasonable prices, call (541) 926-1185 to schedule an appointment.