If you have a furry friend or two, you may have experienced the unique plumbing issues that come with them. All that hair can clog drains during bath time, and you’ve probably found Fido sipping from the toilet at some point. Here are some plumbing-related tips that are helpful to know as a pet owner:

USE A DRAIN STRAINER

When your dog or cat needs a bath, it’s a good idea to use a drain strainer to keep their hair from causing a clog. Even if you don’t think they’re shedding at the time that they hop in the tub, you may be surprised just how much fur comes off once you start scrubbing.

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU FLUSH

“A ‘flushable​’ label doesn’t mean a product’s good for your toilet.”

Some cat litters may say “flushable” on the label, but it’s best to scoop used litter into a bag and toss it into the trash. Cats sometimes eat things they cannot fully digest, like bones. These items will likely cause issues with your plumbing system. Avoid this entirely by not flushing your cat’s litter.

REPLACE PETS’ WATER OFTEN

If your pup or kitty is turning to the toilet for water to drink, you may need to refresh their water dish. ASPCA recommends washing your pets’ water bowls and refilling them twice a day. It’s important to keep an eye on their water levels, especially when it’s hot out, as you may need to give them more water during higher temperatures.

HIDE EXPOSED PIPES AND DRAINS

Animals love to chew, and an exposed pipe or drain may seem like the perfect toy. Prevent unnecessary pet-related plumbing emergencies by moving furniture or other items so your canine and feline friends cannot access pipes or open drains. You can also purchase drain covers that make it difficult to get to them. Roto-Rooter has seen many instances of puppies and kittens finding their way into open drains then requiring pet rescues from deep inside a pipeline.