Snakes
Why it happens: Snakes, especially in warmer climates, can slip through open pipes or sewer systems while hunting for food like rats or frogs, and end up in your toilet.
What to watch for: Unexpected movement in the bowl or, even worse, a surprise visitor when you lift the lid.
How to stop them:
- Install a toilet vent cover or a one-way valve.
- Seal cracks around your home’s exterior and plumbing vents.
- Keep toilet lids closed, especially at night.
- Trim vegetation around your house to reduce the presence of prey animals.
Rats
Why it happens: Rats are strong swimmers and can hold their breath for several minutes. They navigate sewer systems and sometimes enter homes through toilets.
What to watch for: Scratching or squeaking sounds, or spotting a rat swimming in the toilet.
How to stop them:
- Install rat guards on sewer pipes.
- Seal cracks or entry points near plumbing.
- Avoid flushing food or grease that attracts rodents.
- Ask a plumber about installing a rat flap valve in your sewer line.
Frogs
Why it happens: Frogs often enter vent pipes or open drains, especially in humid areas. If there’s standing water and insects nearby, it becomes an ideal environment for them.
What to watch for: Chirping sounds or finding frogs hopping around the toilet bowl.
How to stop them:
- Install a fine mesh screen over roof vent pipes.
- Keep windows closed or use screens.
- Fix leaky faucets and eliminate standing water sources nearby.
Spiders and Insects (Cockroaches, Water Bugs)
Why it happens: These creatures often crawl in through bathroom drains, especially during hot weather or after rain. They’re seeking moisture or food.
What to watch for: Bugs around the toilet or hiding under the rim.
How to stop them:
- Keep your bathroom clean and dry.
- Use drain stoppers when not in use.
- Pour a mix of baking soda and vinegar down the drain weekly to keep pests away.
- Use natural insect repellents like peppermint oil.
Lizards (Geckos, Small Reptiles)
Why it happens: These small creatures can squeeze through gaps and follow insects or warmth into plumbing systems.
What to watch for: Quick movements or rustling behind the toilet, or finding a lizard chilling in the bowl.
How to stop them:
- Screen your windows and exhaust fans.
- Turn off bathroom lights at night (they attract insects, which attract lizards).
- Seal cracks in walls and tiles near plumbing.
Bonus Tips: Toilet Creature Prevention 101
- Always keep toilet lids closed.
- Install drain and pipe screens.
- Schedule regular plumbing inspections.
- Avoid flushing food, grease, or hair, as it attracts pests.
- In high-risk areas, talk to a plumber about installing non-return valves for your pipes.
