Contents:
- Medical Video: Scientists Explain Why It Is Dangerous To Sleep With Pets
- Benefits of sleeping with a cat or pet dog
- But be careful, pets can be a source of disease
- Can babies and children sleep with cats or dogs?
- Can you sleep with a cat or dog if you are allergic?
- So, is it safe to sleep with a pet?
Medical Video: Scientists Explain Why It Is Dangerous To Sleep With Pets
Are you a cat or dog lover, and have pets at home? Do you often sleep with your favorite cat or dog? You are not alone. A survey conducted in America noted that 50% of pet dogs sleep with their owners, and 63% of pet cats have the habit of sleeping in their owners' beds.
Benefits of sleeping with a cat or pet dog
A study from the Mayo Clinic in 2015 explained why many people like to sleep with their pets. Sleeping with pets creates a sense of security in some people. Pets make the bed warmer and more comfortable, making the owner relax and feel safe. People who live alone, or those who cannot sleep with their partners for work reasons, benefit greatly from sleeping together with pets.
But be careful, pets can be a source of disease
Diseases that can be transmitted from animals are called zoonosis. According to the CDC website, before you allow your pets to sleep together, it's good if you make sure that your pet has been vaccinated with the necessary vaccines such as rabies. Also schedule your pet for regular flea and worm cleaning to the vet. Thus, you can be free from the threat of diseases that can be transmitted by animals and can sleep with your pet calmly.
Apart from parasites in animals, your pet's habits can also be a source of problems. Pets usually like to lick you. Although it feels fun and adorable, their licks can spread germs. If you are injured, or are resting at home after surgery, keep yourself away from your beloved animal even though your wound is tightly closed with a bandage.
You should also not sleep with pets when you have flu, ear infections, or other airway infections. Licking done by pets can spread your germs everywhere. Also avoid sleeping with animals when your body's immune condition is weak,
Can babies and children sleep with cats or dogs?
Have you just given birth to your baby? Even though it looks adorable to see your baby playing with your beloved pet, it's good if you get rid of your beloved animal from the little one's bed. This action is one of the actions to prevent the occurrence Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Animals such as dogs can smother your baby by rolling onto it.
Older children should also not be left alone with pets. Even though you are very sure that your pet is tame, during sleep, animals can have nightmares, and when they are touched, they can bite and attack suddenly. This can lead to a very serious situation. If your child wants to sleep with his favorite animal, it's good if you let your pet sleep on the floor only.
Can you sleep with a cat or dog if you are allergic?
If you don't have allergies, sleeping with pets won't make you allergic. But what if you have allergies and still want to sleep with your pet? You may be able to try taking antihistamine at night to prevent you from sneezing when you wake up the next day.
However, if your allergic reaction is so severe that it causes tightness or an asthma attack, you may have to give in to your love for animals. Remove your pet from the room, and clean every corner of your room from sticking hairs.
So, is it safe to sleep with a pet?
The answer depends on the situation. Small children should not be allowed to sleep with their favorite animals. Some medical conditions also prevent adults from sleeping together with pets. However, by taking several precautions, many animal owners can share beds with their beloved cat or dog.
