Is sleeping with pets good for you
What's the story
For many pet owners, the idea of sharing their bed with a furry companion is an endearing one.
The warmth of a dog nestled at your feet or a cat purring beside you can be a comforting experience.
However, sleeping with pets raises questions about the benefits and risks involved. Let's explore the pros and cons of snoozing with your furballs.
Benefit 1
Improves emotional health
A pet can help you feel less lonely and anxious, lessen the symptoms of mental health disorders, control your emotions, and give your life more meaning.
Unconditional love from a pet can raise oxytocin levels in adults, which is linked to relaxation and stress relief.
Snuggling with your pet can calm the mind, as physical touch is largely responsible for the relaxing effects.
Benefit 2
Overall wellness
Many people find solace in having their pets around, particularly dogs. They provide a sense of protection and give owners a feeling of safety at night.
Pets produce warmth, which is particularly comforting in the winter. Your bed may feel cozier and more welcoming, thanks to their body heat.
Some research also claims that having pets nearby decreases cholesterol and lowers blood pressure.
Con 1
Risk of germ exposure
The germs a pet brings into your house might have both good and bad impacts. On one hand, exposing people to a wider range of bacteria and other microorganisms might improve their immune systems.
However, pets can also bring in dangerous diseases, viruses, and parasites, which puts the families they live with in danger.
Sleeping with pets can exacerbate allergies for some people.
Con 2
Decrease sleep quality
Pets can snore, move around, or wake up during the night, potentially disrupting your sleep patterns.
While dogs are light sleepers who are always on alert, cats are nocturnal and might purposely wake you up.
These behaviors disrupt human sleep patterns and can reduce sleep quality when sleeping consistently with pets, either consciously or unconsciously.
Balance
Finding balance
The golden rule is to keep your pet clean. If you are allowing them to sleep next to you, make sure to practice good hygiene.
Create boundaries for pets. Make them understand where they are allowed to sleep and where they are not.
If your pet's behavior disrupts your sleep or indicates an underlying issue, consult a veterinarian for guidance and potential solutions.