Vet weighs in on whether you should let your cat or dog sleep in bed with you

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, and 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."

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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.

Studies conducted by Washington State University have shown that petting a dog or cat for just ten minutes significantly reduces cortisol levels.

This physiological response explains why contact with pets can feel so restorative. "Sharing such an intimate moment strengthens trust and emotional connection," adds veterinarian Pablo. Some pet owners also report being in a better mood when they wake up, and a decrease in symptoms related to depression.

That being said, it's not all benefits. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine warns that a third of people who sleep with their pets experience frequent interruptions to their rest.

Animals have different sleep cycles, move around, snore or get up in the early hours of the morning, all of which can affect the quality of human sleep. Added to this are some health risks.

Animals can carry parasites, bacteria, or allergens, especially if they're not vaccinated or regularly treated with deworming medication. For those who suffer from allergies or asthma, the presence of hair in bed can aggravate symptoms.

The Mayo Clinic, based in the United States, points out that the risk of infection is low when pets receive proper veterinary care, although it recommends maintaining good hygiene for both the animal and the bedding. Brushing your furry friend, washing sheets frequently and performing regular check-ups are key measures to reduce any risks.

Sleeping in the same bed as your pet could also create emotional dependence, increasing separation anxiety when the owner is away. For this reason, some experts recommend letting animals sleep in their own bed in the bedroom.

It's important to weigh up these benefits and risks, and ultimately it's up to each pet owner to decide. According to specialists, it's important to keep in mind what's safest for both you and your pet.