If you recently adopted a pet, you’re likely excited to bring them home and introduce them to your family. Before you do, though, you’ll need to conduct some research on how your new furry friend will impact your lifestyle, including your plumbing system. Here are some guidelines to ensure a seamless transition.

Do:

Invest in drain stoppers.

Whether your pet is covered in dust from crawling on the floor or mud from playing outside, they’re likely going to need a bath now and then. When you do bathe them, use drain stoppers to ensure their fur doesn’t cause clogs in the pipes. 

Conceal your pipes.

If you leave your pets at home or outside, they might get bored and claw at or chew on exposed pipes. Any damage or leaks will lead to increased utility costs and potential flooding. To avoid this plumbing issue, hide your pipes in walls or under covers.

Don’t:

Flush waste bags.

As a pet owner, one of your primary responsibilities is cleaning up after your animal. When you use a bag to clean up their waste, don’t throw it down the toilet. Because these bags aren’t biodegradable, flushing them can lead to clogs.

Instead, throw them away into outdoor garbage bins to protect your plumbing system and keep the smell away.

Flush litter.

Cat litter is made of materials made to soak up urine and trap odors. Once it becomes saturated, it begins to clump up, so if you flush it down the toilet, it can cause a sewage backup. Instead, scoop it into a bag and put it in the trash.

If you need help managing your plumbing system after adopting a furry friend, turn to A-1 Budget Plumbing in Honolulu, HI. With more than 30 years of experience, they offer everything from drain cleanings to 24-hour emergency services. Visit their website to learn more about their services, and call (808) 526-3747 to schedule an appointment today.