Let’s just get this out of the way: if you’re the kind of person who checks behind the shower curtain every time you pee, this article might ruin you.
But also… you’re right to be paranoid.
Yes, things can and have crawled into people’s toilets — and sometimes even out of them. Let’s take a wild ride through the absolute nightmare fuel of the animal kingdom and, most importantly, how to make sure your butt doesn’t end up face-to-face with one.
1. Snakes
The Toilet Terror OG.
Yes, snakes. It’s rare — but not that rare. Snakes (usually non-venomous ones like rat snakes) can enter your home through plumbing and wind up peeking out of your toilet like they pay rent.
It’s happened — many times. In Texas, Florida, and even Australia, homeowners have discovered snakes in toilets. Typically, they slither in through sewer systems or plumbing vents.
2. Rats
They’re acrobats. They’re swimmers. They’re horrifying.
Rats can swim for miles and tread water for up to 3 days. They’ve been known to climb sewer pipes and surface in… your toilet. Cue the screaming.
Watch how easily a rat can wriggle up your toilet…
In Brookline, Massachusetts, a woman experienced this firsthand when rats came up through her toilet into her apartment on two separate occasions. She recounted, “A couple nights ago, I went to go to the bathroom, and I didn’t realize the rat was already with me at that point hiding behind the toilet.”
3. Spiders
They’re not in the toilet — but near it.
Spiders love damp, dark corners. Your bathroom’s plumbing and pipes can create the perfect hiding spot. So while they may not crawl through your toilet, they’ll absolutely lurk nearby.
4. Frogs
Frogs? In the toilet? Ribbiting news.
It sounds made up, but it’s not. Frogs can hop into vent pipes or water systems and end up right in your bowl — especially in warm, wet climates.
5. Cockroaches
Yes. Just… yes.
Roaches are small, sneaky, and can crawl up pipes — especially in high-humidity areas. Once inside, they’ll explore your drains and, unfortunately, your toilet.
Spotting live roaches, shedded skin, droppings, or egg casings are clear indicators of an infestation.
6. Small Turtles (Yes, Really)
Slow? Yes. Sneaky? Also yes.
It’s incredibly rare, but small turtles have appeared in toilets — often after escaping tanks or being flushed. Sometimes it’s a pet gone rogue. Still… yikes.
7. Lizards & Geckos
Fast little bathroom ninjas.
Lizards (especially in warmer climates like Florida or Texas) can end up in toilets, either by crawling through pipes or sneaking in through windows and plumbing gaps. Some species — like geckos and anoles — are harmless but not exactly a welcome sight.
8. Slugs
Slimy, silent, and definitely not invited.
In damp homes or after heavy rain, slugs can slither in through drains and show up in sinks, tubs, or even toilets. Gross — but mostly harmless.
How to Stop Creatures Invading Your Toilet
Want peace of mind? Cover vents. Seal cracks. And maybe — just maybe — always check before you sit.
- Install a one-way drain valve – These prevent anything from coming back up the pipe once it’s flushed down.
- Keep your toilet lid closed – A simple but often overlooked habit that adds a barrier of protection.
- Seal cracks and openings around plumbing – Small gaps are an open invitation for pests.
- Don’t pour food or grease down the drain – It attracts rodents and insects.
- Regularly clean your bathroom pipes – Flush with hot water, baking soda, and vinegar to keep things clear.
- Call a plumber if things get sketchy – Unusual gurgling sounds or foul odors? Get a pro in to check it out.
Final Thoughts
Toilets aren’t just porcelain thrones — apparently, they’re wildlife doorways now.
And while the odds of finding a cobra under your cheeks are low, they’re not zero. So yeah, maybe keep that lid shut. And maybe… stop scrolling TikTok while you’re in there.
Sound Off in the Comments:
Have YOU ever found something weird in your toilet? (We won’t judge. Much.)