Should I sleep with my pet? 6 tips for sharing space at night
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, CDCES, MBA
Ever wondered if sleeping with pets is safe? Learn the potential benefits and drawbacks of sharing a bed with your pet and 6 tips for a better night's sleep.
It’s becoming more and more common for people to take their pets everywhere — from restaurants to shopping centers, and even on vacation. However, one place in particular generates a lot of debate — the bed.
Some pet owners love the idea of snuggling up with their furry friends at night, while others can’t fathom it. The companionship and comfort of having a pet nearby can be incredibly soothing, but there are some potential downsides to consider.
Is sleeping with pets safe and healthy?
Sharing your bed with your pet can affect your health in a variety of ways, both positive and negative. There are several factors to consider, including the type of pet you own and any individual health conditions you have. While a pet can provide nighttime emotional comfort, this must be weighed against potential health risks and sleep disturbances.
4 potential benefits of sleeping with pets
What’s better than snuggling up with your pet in bed at the end of the day and feeling their sigh of contentment as they settle in for the night? Sleeping with a furry friend can bring many benefits that enhance your overall wellbeing and sleep quality, from boosts in mood to a sense of calm.
1. Improved emotional wellbeing
Many dog owners report that sleeping with their pets brings them increased comfort. The companionship of any pet can reduce feelings of loneliness, anxiety, stress, and depression. Having your pet nearby can create a calming environment that helps you relax and fall asleep more easily.
2. Sense of security
Keeping your pet in your room can help you feel safer, especially if you live alone. Pets may alert you to any unusual noises or movements, helping you feel more at ease and promoting a deeper, more restful sleep.
3. Strengthened bond
Sharing a bed with your pet can strengthen your bond. This can lead to a happier and more content pet, which, in turn, can positively impact your own mood and wellbeing.
4. Calming presence
Many pet owners find that the gentle sounds, warmth, and movements of their pets help them feel more relaxed and comfortable throughout the night. Many cat owners, in particular, find purring soothing, which can help them fall asleep faster.
4 potential reasons you shouldn’t sleep with pets
While there are benefits to sharing your bed with a pet, it's important to consider the possible downsides too, from cleanliness to potentially disrupting your sleep.
1. Sleep disturbances
A large dog in the bed obviously has the potential to disrupt sleep, especially if you’re a light sleeper. But any size pet can shift around, make noise, or change positions frequently during the night, which can lead to fragmented sleep and decreased sleep quality for you. Cats especially may be more active at night, leading to frequent disruptions in your sleep. Going without sleep can cause fatigue, irritability, and reduced productivity the next day.
2. Hygiene concerns
If left untreated, pets can carry fleas, ticks, and even mites, so be sure you’re using preventative parasite care for your pet if you plan to have them cuddle with you. Pets can also track in mud, grass, and other outdoor debris, making it hard to keep your bed clean. Regularly grooming your pet can help, but it's often not enough to completely eliminate the problem.
3. Allergy and asthma triggers
Pets can shed dander—tiny flakes of hair and skin—which may trigger allergies or asthma if you're sensitive or already suffering from these conditions. Sleeping with pets can worsen allergy symptoms and make asthma attacks more frequent and severe.
4. Health risks
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns about sharing a bed with a pet and the potential transmission of zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be passed from animals to humans. Some examples of zoonotic diseases include ringworm or certain bacterial infections. These health risks are particularly concerning for young children, the elderly, or those with a weakened immune system.
Specific cases where sleeping with pets is not recommended
Sleeping with pets can be unsafe for people with the following:
Compromised immune systems: People with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or living with chronic illnesses or pain, are advised to not co-sleep with pets.
People with insomnia or other sleep disorders: Light sleepers or those with insomnia or other sleep disorders should avoid sleeping with pets, as it can lead to sleep disruptions and even pose potential safety risks.
Babies and young children: Babies and young children may be vulnerable to accidental injuries from pets and should avoid sleeping in the same bed with them.
How to sleep with pets safely: 6 tips for a good night's sleep
If you enjoy the comfort and companionship of having your pet sleep with you, but want to minimize potential downsides, there are a few ways to balance co-sleeping with your pet while still getting sufficient rest.
1. Train your pet
Train your pet to settle in one spot on the bed to help reduce sleep disturbances. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage your pet to stay there throughout the night.
2. Use separate bedding
Give your pet a specific blanket or sheet to help keep pet hair, dander, and dirt to one area, making it easier to keep your bed clean. Wash your pet's bedding regularly to prevent the buildup of allergens and bacteria.
3. Regular grooming
Regular brushing can reduce shedding and bathing can help remove dirt and parasites and minimize the amount of pet dander and debris in your bed. This is especially important for pets that spend a lot of time outdoors.
4. Wash bedding frequently
Use hot water and hypoallergenic detergents to effectively remove pet hair, dander, and any potential allergens. Wash your bedding at least once a week to help create a healthier sleeping environment for both you and your pet.
5. Consider alternative sleeping arrangements
When sharing the bed with your pet is too disruptive but you want to maintain the bond, consider alternative sleeping arrangements that allow your pet to stay close without being in the bed. Pet beds, crates, or mats placed near your bed can provide your pet with a comfortable sleeping area while giving you the space you need for undisturbed sleep.
6. Try air purifiers
Air purifiers can help reduce airborne pet dander and allergens and improve the overall air quality in your bedroom.
Sleeping with pets FAQs
What type of pets are suitable for co-sleeping?
Dogs and cats are the most common pets for co-sleeping, but the suitability depends on the pet's behavior, size, and habits. Small, calm, and well-trained pets are generally easier to sleep with than larger or more active ones. For example, a small dog or a calm cat that sleeps through the night can be a good co-sleeping companion.
Larger dogs or highly active cats might be more disruptive. Assess your pet's behavior and comfort level in a shared sleeping space to decide what’s best for you.
Are there any medical conditions that make it unsafe to sleep with pets?
Certain medical conditions can make it unsafe to sleep with pets.
Severe allergies: Severe allergies or asthma may be aggravated by pet dander.
Compromised immune systems: People with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or living with chronic illnesses, are at higher risk of infections from zoonotic diseases that pets may carry.
Respiratory issues: Sleeping with pets may worsen certain skin conditions or respiratory issues.
How can I ensure a hygienic sleeping environment when sharing my bed with pets?
Maintaining a hygienic sleeping environment when sharing your bed with pets can be achieved through the following:
Regular grooming: Keep your pet clean and well-groomed to reduce shedding and the spread of dirt and allergens.
Frequent bedding washes: Wash your bed linens and your pet's bedding regularly with hot water to remove pet hair, dander, and dirt.
Use separate bedding: Designate a specific blanket or sheet for your pet to help contain hair and dander to one area.
Vacuum and clean: Regularly vacuum and clean your bedroom to remove pet hair and dust.
Use air purifiers: Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce airborne allergens and improve air quality.
What should I do if my pet disrupts my sleep?
If your pet disrupts your sleep, there are several things you can try.
Training: Train your pet to stay in one spot on the bed using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise.
Alternative sleeping arrangements: Provide a comfortable pet bed, crate, or mat near your bed where your pet can sleep without disturbing you.
Consistent bedtime routine: Establish a consistent bedtime routine for your pet to help them settle down at night.
Calming aids: Consider using white noise machines or pheromone diffusers to help soothe your pet and reduce nighttime activity.
Consult a vet: If your pet continues to disrupt your sleep, consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues that might cause restlessness.
How can I train my pet to stay in one spot throughout the night?
Training your pet to stay in one spot throughout the night requires patience and consistency. But it can be done.
Create a designated spot: Choose a specific spot on the bed for your pet to sleep. Use a pet bed or a blanket to define this area.
Positive reinforcement: Use treats and praise to reward your pet when they stay in their designated spot.
Consistency: Be consistent with your training. Reinforce the behavior every night until your pet learns to stay in their spot.
Establish a bedtime routine: Create a calming bedtime routine that helps your pet wind down and associate their designated spot with sleep.
Be patient: Training takes time, so be patient and persistent. Gradually, your pet will learn to stay in their own spot throughout the night.
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