You should have known this sooner.
1. Rats
- Why They Crawl Through: Rats are excellent swimmers and can hold their breath for several minutes. They may enter through sewer lines and crawl up into your toilet bowl.
- Risks: Disease transmission (leptospirosis, hantavirus), bites, contamination.
- Prevention:
- Install a rat guard or one-way valve in your sewer line.
- Keep the toilet lid closed.
- Seal all cracks around pipes.
2. Snakes
- Why They Crawl Through: Snakes may follow the scent of rats or water sources into the sewer and end up in your toilet.
- Risks: Venomous bites, panic, and danger to pets and children.
- Prevention:
- Keep toilet lids closed.
- Seal open drainage pipes and ventilation gaps.
- Trim bushes near sewer access points.
3. Frogs
- Why They Crawl Through: Frogs may enter sewer pipes through broken lines or openings in search of water or insects.
- Risks: Harmless but unsettling.
- Prevention:
- Fix cracks or leaks in plumbing.
- Use mesh screens on open vents.
- Ensure proper sanitation near sewer entry points.
4. Cockroaches
- Why They Crawl Through: Cockroaches can travel through drain pipes looking for food or shelter.
- Risks: Disease transmission, infestations, allergies.
- Prevention:
- Clean drains regularly with hot water and baking soda.
- Use drain covers or stoppers.
- Keep the bathroom dry and clean.
5. Lizards
- Why They Crawl Through: Lizards may enter through openings in bathroom pipes or crawl up from drains.
- Risks: Startling, may contaminate surfaces.
- Prevention:
- Install mesh or screens on drain openings.
- Remove food or water sources nearby.
- Use natural repellents like garlic or pepper spray near drains.
6. Spiders
- Why They Crawl Through: Spiders may travel through cracks and open pipes, attracted by moisture and insects.
- Risks: Bites, fear factor, venom (in rare cases).
- Prevention:
- Seal gaps around the toilet and floor.
- Keep the bathroom dry.
- Spray natural insect repellents like peppermint oil around toilet areas.
7. Centipedes & Millipedes
- Why They Crawl Through: They like moist environments and can enter through sewage lines.
- Risks: Mild bites, creepy appearance.
- Prevention:
- Maintain dry bathroom floors.
- Repair leaking pipes and drains.
- Apply caulk around plumbing entry points.
General Tips to Prevent Any Creatures from Entering Your Toilet:
- Close the toilet lid when not in use.
- Inspect your plumbing system for cracks or gaps.
- Install sewer traps or valves.
- Use professional pest control if sightings are frequent.