How Does My Pet Affect My Septic System?

Pets can cause a surprising amount of damage to your septic system. Not only do they deposit large amounts of waste, but they can also carry dangerous parasites into your system. In addition, pet products such as shampoos and wipes may contain harsh chemicals that are not compatible with septic systems. They can also lead to clogs in the pipes.

Pet Waste

Pet waste is often not properly disposed of, which can lead to it ending up in the septic tank. This can cause septic system problems, including clogs and overflow. Septic systems depend on bacteria to break down solid waste. When you flush pet waste down the toilet, it introduces new types of bacteria that can disrupt this delicate balance and cause problems with the septic tank.

Pet Shampoo

Shampoos for pets can be a great way to keep your pet looking their best. They can also help your pet fight off fleas and ticks, prevent itching and dandruff, and even enhance your pet’s coat color. However, many shampoos contain phosphates and surfactants that can harm the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank. This can lead to a buildup of waste and a backed up septic system. To avoid this, it is important to use soaps and detergents that are septic safe. Luckily, there are many products available that have been designed with the septic tank in mind.

Pet Wipes

Wipes are wet disposable cleaning cloths that can be used for quick clean-ups without the need to bathe your pet. They can also be helpful for deodorizing between baths or to get rid of allergens like dander and dirt on your fur baby’s body parts that are hard to reach. But wipes can end up in your septic system if you don’t properly dispose of them. They don’t breakdown the way toilet paper does, which can result in clogged pipes, baffles, outlets and other components throughout your septic system. Wipes can even catch and trap other trash and create issues with field line failure. This can lead to emergency septic repairs and replacement costs in the long run.

Kitty Litter

Kitty litter has become one of the biggest hazards to your septic system. Not only is it not properly disposed of, but it can also cause a backup. When cat owners flush kitty litter down the toilet, it clumps and petrifies, making it difficult for the bacteria in your septic system to break down. This disrupts the delicate balance of bacteria required to work properly. It can also carry a number of parasites, including Toxoplasma gondii, into the water supply. These parasites can harm animals and humans.