Why Kitty Litter is Deadly for Your Septic Tank

October 19 2020

Why Kitty Litter is Deadly for Your Septic Tank

The world is made up of cat people and dog people. It is also made up of centralized sewer system people and septic system people. If you have a cat and a septic system, then this article is for you. Septic Blue gets a lot of calls to deal with the aftermath of kitty litter in the septic tank. We understand that cleaning up the litter box is an undesirable task, but we urge you to avoid cutting corners by flushing kitty litter down the toilet. This applies to “flushable” kitty litter as well. If the damage has been done and you need a septic professional’s assistance, then call Septic Blue to speak with a courteous representative today.

How Your Septic System Is Supposed to Work

A septic system is actually simple in design. It is composed of a septic tank, a drain field, and some drains that connect the components. Waste and wastewater leave your building and enter the septic tank through an inlet pipe. The waste is separated into three layers in the septic tank: a top layer of scum, a middle layer of liquid effluent, and a bottom layer of solid waste. The liquids readily leave the septic tank toward the drain field where they percolate through the soil for treatment. The solids, meanwhile, are broken down into sludge by “good” bacteria. Eventually, this sludge must be cleaned or pumped out to avoid overflow. It is absolutely crucial that you routinely pump out this waste if you do not want a damaged septic system.

What Kitty Litter Does to Your Septic Tank

Most cat owners enjoy using kitty litter that clumps due to the simplicity of cleaning the litter box. These clay-based products are nifty but are exactly what you do not want into your plumbing system. Even if the litter does not clump and get caught in the pipes, it will still wreak havoc within the septic tank. Clay will soak up that wastewater in your septic tank and take up unnecessary amounts of space. The chemicals and bacteria in the septic tank will not be able to fully break down this substance, forcing you to get early septic tank pumping

What You Should Do

Frankly, we advise against flushing anything other than pee, poo, and toilet paper. We even advise against multi-ply toilet paper as even they are clog hazards. Instead, toss the used kitty litter into an odor-locking bag and throw the bag in the trash. You can also try potty training your cat to get away from kitty litter altogether!

Who To Contact During Septic Emergencies

If you have an issue with your septic system, then there is no reason to fret. You can always call the professionals at Septic Blue to have a septic specialist dispatched to your doorstep. Our technicians are equipped with the latest equipment to resolve your issue the first time around. Call Septic Blue now to speak with a live representative.