Sharing a Bed with Pets: A Veterinarian Lists the Main Risks.

According to ТСН: More and more people invite their pets to bed, but sharing a bed may not be as safe as it seems. It's important to understand when it is acceptable and when it's better to leave the animal on the floor.

"If the animal is healthy, vaccinated, treated for parasites, and in good hygienic condition, then the risks are minimal. However, a person's sleep quality almost always deteriorates because animal sleep is polyphasic, especially in cats. This means they are active between cycles and may wake the owner," explained veterinarian Yelyzaveta Babiy.

Hazards from Animals That Roam Outdoors

Cats and dogs that go outside can bring home fleas and ticks, even if they have been treated. Moreover, there will always be dirt and dust in your home. There is also a risk of the presence of infection agents (zoonoses).

"Fleas or ticks can even be carried by treated animals, including cats. The protection works in such a way that the animal does not suffer, but it can bring parasites home," emphasizes Babiy.

It is known that flea saliva is a strong allergen, and parasites can easily end up in bed.

The veterinarian noted the cases when it is definitely not worth allowing the animal in bed:

• it is very small or old

• has aggression or behavioral problems

• suffers from chronic infections or incontinence

Dogs may perceive the bed as their territory and defend it.

Cats or Dogs: Who is Safer?

Dogs carry fewer parasites and less often disturb sleep. Sharing a bed with a dog increases the level of oxytocin — the “calm hormone.”

"A treated dog is a very safe bedmate. It rarely carries active forms of infections and rarely brings ticks. Additionally, when sleeping with a dog, more oxytocin — the calm hormone — is released," notes the specialist.

It is important to remember: the dog should only be allowed on the bed with permission to avoid forming territorial aggression.

Why Do Cats Wake Their Owners?

Cats sleep for short periods and do not understand human long sleep. They may begin to worry if the owner lies still for too long and check on them with a paw or meowing.

"Cats sometimes touch your face with their paws or call you in the middle of the night because they are worried that you have been lying still for too long and are breathing slowly. They are literally checking to see if you are alive," says the veterinarian.

Therefore, you can sleep with animals if they are healthy and well-cared for, but it is worth considering the risks, especially if your pet roams outdoors or may disturb your sleep.

Earlier, we discussed the ingredients in cleaning products that can be dangerous for your pets.

In particular, these are: bleach, ammonia, essential oils, phenols, quaternary ammonium compounds.

Why this can be harmful — read in our material.