Should you let dogs and cats sleep in your bed? Vet weighs in on debate

Sharing your bed with a pet can strengthen your bond and reduce your stress, but it turns out it's not always the best when it comes to getting the best sleep. Many pet owners love to share this time with their pets - nothing beats waking up to the sound of purring or feeling a paw on your chest.

For those who consider their pet to be another family member, sleeping with them is not just a habit, but a form of companionship at night. However adorable this nightly routine is, it turns out while it could provide benefits for your emotional health, it's not always recommended by experts.

Veterinarian Pablo Antonio Olmedo, known on social media as @pablo_vet83, explained that "sleeping with a dog or cat can reduce stress and anxiety, promote sleep and strengthen emotional bonds". He added: "Their rhythmic breathing, body heat and presence create a calming effect similar to that of a hug."

Sleeping next to your pet can also increase levels of oxytocin, also known as the "feel-good" hormone and decrease cortisol, which is associated with stress. According to the vet, that means it can improve your mood and even help you fall asleep more easily.

And he's not the only one. The National Sleep Foundation and the American Psychiatric Association (APA) point out that the presence of an animal can alleviate anxiety, reduce loneliness and reinforce a sense of security, especially in those who live alone.

Research from Washington State University has revealed that stroking a dog or cat for merely ten minutes can dramatically lower cortisol levels.

This biological reaction helps explain why interaction with pets can feel so rejuvenating. "Sharing such an intimate moment strengthens trust and emotional connection," veterinarian Pablo explains.

Certain pet owners have also noted improved moods upon waking, alongside a reduction in depressive symptoms.

However, it's not without drawbacks. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine cautions that one-third of individuals who share their bed with pets suffer regular disruptions to their slumber.

Pets have distinct sleep patterns, shift position, make noise or rise during the early morning hours, which can all compromise human sleep quality. There are also certain health considerations to bear in mind.

Pets may harbour parasites, bacteria or allergens, particularly if they haven't been vaccinated or routinely given worming treatments. For allergy or asthma sufferers, the presence of fur in the bedroom can worsen symptoms.

The US-based Mayo Clinic notes that infection risk remains minimal when pets receive appropriate veterinary attention, though it advises maintaining proper hygiene for both the animal and bedclothes. Regular grooming of your four-legged companion, frequent washing of bed linen and routine veterinary examinations are essential steps to minimise potential hazards.

Sharing a bed with your pet could also foster emotional dependence, leading to increased separation anxiety when the owner is absent. Hence, some experts suggest allowing animals to sleep in their own beds within the bedroom.

It's crucial to consider these benefits and risks, and ultimately, it's up to each pet owner to make the decision. Specialists emphasise that it's important to prioritise what's safest for both you and your pet.