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Are you someone who likes to share your bed with your pet?

Its not uncommon sincestudiesshow that around 56% of pet owners in the US do the same.

Woman sleeping with her pet dog in bed

But experts advise against this due to its serious impact on your wellbeing including infections and disrupted sleep.

Is it bad to share a bed with your pet?

For others, it may result in disturbed sleep due to constant movement or allergens.

A boy with his white pet dog in bed

3 reasons why you should avoid sharing your bed with your pet

1.

These bacteria are infamous for causing a range of problems like fever, diarrhea and stomach cramps.

These are basically tiny skin flakes which can trigger allergies and exacerbate any existing respiratory conditions like asthma.

A white cat sits in bed next to a sleeping lady in bed

Children are particularly seen to be impacted by long-term exposure to pet hair or dander during sleep.

“Pet hair and dander can irritate the airways, leading to congestion, sneezing, and poor-quality sleep.

Even if you’re not allergic, exposure over time can increase sensitivity,” explains Dr Mercer.

Air purifier with woman and dog both doing yoga in the background.

Here’s how to share your bed with a pet and maintain healthy sleep

1.

This can keep away pet dander, odor, dust and other common allergens ensuring a clean comfortable sleep.

Regular vet visits and grooming

Another crucial step is to always keep a check on your pet’s health.

Man sleeping on the couch in a brightly lit living room

“Regularly brushing your pet helps remove excess fur and minimises shedding.

Keep a consistent sleep schedule

Having a consistent bedtime is asleep hygienebest practice.

Collage of testers in different sleep positions

A person wearing rubber gloves uses a spray bottle and a clean cloth to clean the surface of the Emma Elite mattress.

A person lying on their stomach on the Leesa Legend Hybrid Mattress

An unmade bed with a white duvet bunched up and white pillows, mattress shows slight body impressions

The image shows a sleep deprived woman lying in bed and holding her hands over her eyes

A chocolate Easter egg in pink tin foil next to image of blonde woman in purple star patterned pyjamas struggling to sleep in bed with white sheets

Woman lying down on the bed and smiling feeling comfortable

A woman lying on her side sleeping with a handdrawn thought bubble over her head to show she�s thinking

A woman with dark brown hair lies on her side staring at the back of a white alarm clock that shows the time as 2.30am

A woman with short brown hair sitting on bed with white sheets with a glass of green Spirulina smoothie in hand

Ring Wall Light Solar turned on at night.

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