How to Keep a Pet From Drinking Out of the Toilet

I know, sounds like a no-brainer, but then why do so many people still grapple with this issue? I think it needs to be addressed and eHow is the perfect place to do it. Here are some ways to get your pet off the toilet water...cold turkey.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Put the toilet lid in the down position. Again, I know it’s a given, but consider how many husbands, boyfriends and sons don’t remember the seat, let alone the lid. Inform the boys that toilet seats are meant to remain covered.
2. Keep the bathroom door shut when it’s not in use and don’t forget to tell your guests. Unless "Mighty Mutt" or the "Cat from Chaos" have devised a way to open it—in which case you’ll need to be sure to put the lid down.
3. Keep your pet’s water bowl filled with fresh, clean water at all times. It helps if it’s cool, since that’s part of the appeal of toilet water.
4. Place water bowls in different parts of the house, as well as in the yard.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase an automatic water dispenser to eliminate the chance of an empty bowl.
• If all else fails, consider purchasing a water bowl that resembles a toilet bowl (see Resources below).
• The ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center warns that toilet water can irritate a pet’s gastrointestinal tract and cause vomiting and nausea. This can result from drop-in cleaning tablets in the tank, residue from a toilet bowl cleaner, or simply from bacteria. If your pet drinks chemically treated water, give him a small amount of milk mixed with water to dilute it and lessen the chance of stomach upset.