Sleeping with your pet: Pros and cons for a better night's sleep

Valking Bedding explains: Sleeping with your dog or cat – Good or bad for your health?

The topic of whether or not it's a good idea to sleep with your pet is often controversial. At Valking Bedding, we've listed the most important advantages and disadvantages so you can make the best choice for your sleeping comfort and health.

The disadvantages of sleeping with your dog or cat

Let's start with the downsides of sleeping with your pet. Despite the love and companionship your pet brings, there are important reasons why sharing your bed with your dog or cat might not be the best choice.

1. Increased risk of diseases
   Dogs and cats often bring bacteria into the house, such as fecal bacteria, by being outdoors. This can lead to health risks, as they also carry these bacteria into their beds. It's advisable not to let your pet sleep in your bed to prevent disease transmission.

2. Movement and noise pollution
   Pets, especially cats, are often active at night. This can disrupt your sleep with restless tossing and turning or noises. This can lead to less deep sleep and less rest.

3. Skin infections such as ringworm
   Ringworm is a common fungal infection in pets that can also be transmitted to humans. The risk increases if your pet sleeps in your bed. It's important to take precautions, such as wearing pajamas to limit skin contact.

4. Asthma or allergies
   If you're allergic to dogs or cats or suffer from asthma, sleeping with your pet can exacerbate symptoms. It's wise to consider hypoallergenic bedding and keep your pet out of the bedroom.

5. Behavioral problems
   Pets that sleep in their owners' beds can consider the bed their territory. This can lead to behavioral problems, especially when other people come into the house, such as children or a partner. This can make it difficult to set boundaries.

The Benefits of Sleeping with Your Pet

While there are drawbacks to sleeping with your dog or cat, there are also advantages, especially for people who benefit from their pet's companionship.

1. Better night's sleep through comfort and safety
   Some people experience a better night's sleep when they have their dog or cat in bed. Pets can provide a sense of security and comfort, which is especially helpful for people with insomnia or stress . Research from the Mayo Clinic shows that pets can be calming for many people.

2. Strengthening the immune system
   While pets can carry bacteria, there's also evidence that exposure to such bacteria can strengthen the immune system. This is especially true for children, but adults can also benefit. Be sure to change your pet's bedding regularly and groom your pet properly to minimize health risks.

3. A healthy compromise
   Want to keep your pet close by, but not on your bed? Consider a bed in the bedroom or create a comfortable bed for your pet with one of our specially designed blankets . This way, you can enjoy their company without the inconvenience of direct contact in bed.

Conclusion: Sleeping with your pet – Yes or No?

There are both advantages and disadvantages to sleeping with your pet. The most important thing is to prioritize your own health and sleep comfort. Consider allergies, illnesses, and potential sleep disruptions, but also consider the positive effects of a safe and reassuring feeling. A good compromise might be to keep your pet close by without them sleeping in the bed.

Want more tips for a better night's sleep? Check out our blog for sleep tips and discover how to optimize your sleep environment with anti-allergy bedding .