The increasing trend of pet owners sharing their beds with their dogs and cats reveals a growing emotional bond between humans and their favorite animals
However, this habit, which provides many with a sense of warmth and comfort, also raises questions about its health and psychological effects. While some studies point to benefits such as improved mood and a feeling of security, experts warn of potential risks including sleep disturbances, allergies, and the transmission of germs, making sleeping with pets a subject of ongoing debate.
Experts believe that sleeping next to a pet can provide a sense of comfort and reassurance, especially for people who live alone or suffer from anxiety and stress.
Neurophysiologist Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan explains that emotional interaction with pets stimulates the release of the hormone oxytocin, which is associated with feelings of attachment and psychological comfort, and may help some people relax and sleep better.
Research also suggests that pets may provide psychological support to people with post-traumatic stress disorder, with several veterans reporting that their dogs helped reduce nightmares and improve sleep quality.
Experts add that pets sometimes contribute to strengthening the daily routine; their adherence to fixed times for food and activity encourages their owners to be regular in their sleep and wake times, which is an important factor in maintaining good health.
On the other hand, there are downsides. Pets can be a direct cause of disrupted sleep due to their constant movement or nighttime noises, such as barking, meowing, snoring, playing, or wandering around the house.
An American study showed that people who sleep with their pets reported lower sleep quality and more symptoms of insomnia compared to others, especially those who sleep with dogs or own more than one pet.
Most survey participants also admitted that their pets had woken them up at least once during the night, while some needed a long time to get back to sleep.
Researchers warn that pets can transfer various types of bacteria and parasites to bedding via their fur, paws, or saliva. These germs include salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and other microorganisms that can pose a health risk in some cases.
Dogs may also carry parasites such as worms, while cats can transmit certain types of bacteria and parasites or bring ticks from outside, which increases the likelihood of some diseases being transmitted to humans.
Although these risks do not necessarily mean contracting the disease, experts advise paying attention to the cleanliness of pets, conducting regular veterinary checkups, and washing hands regularly.
Experts recommend cleaning the mattress regularly and changing the sheets frequently, in addition to using protective mattress covers to reduce the accumulation of allergens.
Potential impact on marital relationships
The effects of sleeping with pets can extend to personal relationships. Some studies and surveys suggest that having a dog or cat in bed may limit a couple's privacy or affect intimacy, and some participants reported that caring for the pet sometimes takes up time that should be spent with their partner.
Although many believe that pets strengthen family bonds, their constant presence in the bedroom can become a source of tension for some couples
It's not just about human comfort; pets can also be affected by this habit. Experts warn that excessive reliance on the owner's presence for sleeping or relaxing can promote separation anxiety in some animals, a behavioral disorder that manifests when the animal is separated from its owner.
Therefore, experts advise training pets to sleep in their own places and giving them the freedom to choose where they feel comfortable, whether it is next to their owner or in a separate bed.
Ultimately, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Sleeping with pets can be a source of comfort and emotional support for some, while for others it can lead to sleep disturbances, allergies, or other health problems. The decision ultimately depends on individual health conditions, lifestyle, and the balance between benefits and risks
