Pets in The Bed? The Debate, the Pros, & How to Make it Work
While some say sleeping with your pets in the bed is the best idea, others highly disagree. So, let’s talk about it – The big debate, the benefits and how to share your bed if you decide to do so.
The Great Pets in The Bed Debate
Having your pets sleep in your bed is a completely personal choice. For some, it could be the highlight of their day getting to go cuddle up with their furry best friend at the end of a long day, for others, it’s a complete no-go!
For some it can make them feel safe and calm, for other’s it disturbs their sleep and brings dirt into the bed. Both sides of the coin have very valid points! So let’s delve deeper into it.
The Pros of Letting Pets in The Bed:
- Comfort & Companionship
We see our pets as family, and so cuddling with them can often assist with feelings of loneliness or anxiety. Many people feel they get a better night’s rest with their pet nearby.
- Warmth
Pets make for great heaters, and we know how cold the South African winters can be, so having them close can be quite cosy!
- Stronger Bond
Having pets in the bed can strengthen your bond, make you feel closer! You might even develop your own little routine that can be your special bedtime routine! It’s a great time to relax and feel close.
The Cons of Pets in The Bed:
- Interrupted Sleep
Pets move around, dream, kick, snore, and even hog the blanket while they sleep. This can be quite disruptive when trying to get a good night’s rest, especially if you’re a light sleeper.
- Allergies & Asthma
If you suffer from allergies or asthma, sharing a bed with your pets might make it worse. Pets bring in dander, fur, dirt and dust, which could affect your sleep – don’t forget about cats who often enjoy sleeping on their owners’ head!
- Cleanliness
Let’s be real, pets aren’t always the cleanest. They track in dirt, mud, grass, dust and even worse items. If you value your hyper cleanliness, pets in the bed probably aren’t your way to go!
How to Make It Work
Whether you want to start having your pets share your bed or improve your current sleeping arrangements, here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Set Boundaries
Have a set place on the bed where your pet is allowed to sleep. You can give them their own blanket, which will be seen as their area.
2. Keep Your Pets Clean
After walks, wipe their paws. Give them regular baths. Brush them often. All these can assist in keeping your pets and your bed clean.
3. Use a Pet Blanket/Cover
Having a designated spot on the bed where their blanket is can assist with protecting your sheets and make it easy to wash.
4. Trial & Error
If you do notice that you’re not sleeping well, but still want them close by, try putting their bed next to yours. This way, they are still close without disrupting your sleep. You can always try again with having them in bed.
Letting your pets sleep in bed with you is not for everyone! It can certainly be lovely if it works for you. Listen to your body, your sleep and your pets. Do what works for you! As we said, there’s no right or wrong answer here, it’s all up to personal preferences.
As long as you’re both happy!
Do your pets sleep in bed with you? Maybe they sleep in a crate or their own bed? Let us know how your house goes about it!
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