The age-old debate on whether it’s good to sleep with pets has gained new perspectives from recent studies. Traditionally, experts warned against it due to potential disruptions, as pets may move, bark, or snore. These “microawakenings” can lead to sleep fragmentation, impacting the quality of rest.
However, recent findings suggest benefits for some individuals, particularly those dealing with depression or anxiety. Pets, acting as comforting companions, may reduce anxiety and provide psychological comfort.
Data from the Mayo Clinic’s Center for Sleep Medicine revealed that over half of pet owners allowed their pets in the bedroom, finding them either unobtrusive or beneficial to sleep.
Studies also indicated positive effects on children, with adolescents sleeping with pets showing similar sleep profiles to those without.
Despite these potential benefits, experts caution against co-sleeping with pets for individuals with insomnia, sleep disorders, or respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies.
Factors like pet movements, snoring, and potential allergens should be considered. Clinical psychologist Michael Breus advises trying it for a couple of nights to assess its impact.
Overall, while pets can offer companionship and comfort, individual sleep patterns and health conditions play a crucial role in determining the suitability of sharing the bed with furry friends.
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