It is possible for many animals – like birds and rodents – to deposit fecal matter in your home’s gutter system or locations where it may flow into the gutter system.
This fecal matter may contain pathogens and various types of bacteria that has the potential to make your pet sick. This is why it is essential that you keep your home’s gutter system clean and maintained. Failure to do so could have many negative consequences to pets who are attracted to the water that emerges from the gutter system.
Is Gutter Water Safe for Cats and Dogs?
Gutter water has the potential to contains certain types of chemicals and other types of contaminants that may prove to be dangerous or even toxic to cats and dogs. Sometimes, the water may run on the ground and come into contact with fluids from a vehicle – such as antifreeze.
What Symptoms Will My Pet Haver if They Drank Contaminated Water from a gutter?
There are many symptoms that may be exhibited by a pet that has consumed contaminated water from a gutter system. The following outlines these symptoms:
- Abdominal Pain
- Diarrhea
- Loss of Appetite
- Isolating to be Alone
What Types of Dangers Lurk in Gutter Water?
There are many types of dangers that have the potential to be inside of gutter water. The following outlines the two main ones:
- Gastroenteritis – This is the irritation and/or the inflammation of the stomach and the intestines. Pets may develop this after drinking contaminated water. It results in abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. It is caused by parasites and bacteria found in the gutter water.
- Giardia – This may be passed from the feces of infected creatures. It is a parasite that your pet may get if they drink contaminated water from the gutter system. The severity of the symptoms experience varies from mild to severe.
How Do I Make Sure My Gutters Do Not Make My Pet Sick?
In order to reduce the possibility that your pet is drinking contaminated water from your gutter system, you should clean it regularly. If it is an older system, it may be time to get a new one with a gutter guard. This will help limit the number of dangers that make their way into your gutter system.
Contact Us
If you want a new gutter system installed on your home that includes a gutter system, contact us today at Southern Industries Home Improvements. We are your one-stop shop for home improvements. When you call, be sure to ask about our current low-cost installation special. We are licensed, insured, and guarantee your satisfaction with various warranties. To learn more, contact us now by calling (833) 240-4900