It has become common to let the dog or cat sleep in the bed. For many, it provides calm and closeness and is seen as a natural part of family life.
At the same time, health data show that sleep problems are becoming increasingly widespread among adults.
Sleep in everyday life
Sleep plays an important role in concentration, mood, and overall health. Even so, many people experience interruptions during the night.
These can be minor issues such as movement, noise, or the need to get up.
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Sleep medicine experts point out that repeated awakenings can affect the body, even if a person spends many hours in bed overall.
Over time, this has been linked to an increased risk of, among other things, heart problems, depression, and obesity.
Pets and health
When animals sleep in the bed, close contact increases over many hours. This can be significant for people with allergies or asthma, as pet dander can worsen symptoms.
Sleep specialist Nancy Foldvary-Schaefer has noted that there is a real risk of these conditions being triggered.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also state that animals can transmit diseases to humans.
The risk is generally limited but is present with close contact.
An individual assessment
There are also positive aspects. The National Institutes of Health highlight that interaction with pets can reduce stress and improve well-being.
For many, having their animals close at night provides a sense of security.
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If you wake up feeling tired and unrested, it may be worth considering whether your pet is affecting your sleep.
Ultimately, however, it comes down to what provides the best night’s rest.
Sources: Cleveland Clinic, Nyheder 24, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and National Institutes of Health.
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