Adopting a pet is a rewarding experience, and comes with a lot of responsibility. It’s important to think about the impact that getting a pet will have on your home’s plumbing, too. Here are a few tips for maintaining the plumbing with four-legged friends in the house. 

How to Pet-Proof You Plumbing System 

1. Bathe Pets Outside 

Cat and dog hair can clog the pipes, especially if it’s matted or full of debris. If your pets like getting down and dirty outside, don’t bathe them in the house. Instead, set up a pet washing station outside in the summertime, and take them to a local groomer during the colder months. 

2. Dispose of Cat Litter Properly

Never flush cat litter down the toilet. Even brands that claim to be flushable are designed to soak up liquid, causing clogs somewhere in your pipes. Put used litter in a trash bag, seal it tightly, and dispose of it in your outdoor garbage bin. 

3. Protect Exposed Pipes

Both dogs and cats are inclined to play with household items and fixtures that aren't necessarily intended for their enjoyment. This includes exposed pipes. Scour the property both inside and out for any exposed pipes within their reach and cover them. If your pets know how to open cabinets, make sure to cover the pipes behind those doors, as well. This protects both the pipes and your cat, as well.

The friendly and knowledgeable technicians at Bernie Buchner are proud to help homeowners throughout La Crosse, WI, maintain their plumbing systems. For more than 60 years, this licensed, bonded, and fully insured company has been providing commercial HVAC and plumbing services for residential and commercial clients throughout the area. To see what past customers have to say about their work, check out their website. To schedule repairs or maintenance, call (608) 784-9000.