Can Cats Sleep with Humans? A Cozy Insight!

For some individuals, snuggling up with a cat for sleep might actually have adverse effects on their health. Therefore, before deciding to share your bed with your feline friend, there are five crucial points to consider.

1. Disturbed Sleep

Cats typically spend 15 to 20 hours a day in a deep slumber, which is generally a good thing, as they tend to be quiet during this time. However, the issue arises when their sleep schedule conflicts with yours. Cats are nocturnal creatures, which means their active periods align with the time when you're trying to unwind after a long day. This can lead to unwanted disturbances as your cat starts its night life, potentially keeping you awake with its movements or even with an unexpected scratch. Reports suggest that over 20% of pet owners who sleep with their pets experience sleep disturbances.

2. Cat Litter on the Bed

While cats are generally clean, this cleanliness is limited to their own bodies. Cats do not wash their hands after using the bathroom, and even though they cover their waste to mask the smell, their claws can still carry dirt. If you allow your cat to jump into bed with you, your mattress might become a second litter box, which is certainly not the most hygienic situation.

3. Allergies or Asthma

Many people are allergic to cats and dogs, with the American Asthma and Allergy Foundation reporting that up to 30% of Americans have a cat or dog allergy, and the reaction to cats is twice as common as that to dogs. If you have allergies and are considering keeping a cat, it's advisable to consult with a doctor. However, if you're determined to have a cat despite your allergies, you might want to try a shortterm arrangement with a friend to see if you experience severe reactions. This can help you make an informed decision about whether to keep a cat.

4. Sharing a Bed with Babies

While there is no definitive evidence linking cats to baby allergies, cat fur is a known allergen. It's best to keep cats separate from babies when they're sleeping. Even if your cat and baby get along well, there's always a risk of accidents, such as the cat accidentally scratching the baby or the baby rolling over and accidentally pressing on the cat.

5. Parasites and Fungal Infections

When sharing a bed with your cat, it's essential to maintain good hygiene. Make sure your cat is up to date on vaccinations and deworming treatments, as these are necessary precautions. Even though cats are meticulous groomers, they can still carry parasites like fleas and worms, which can bite humans and cause itching. Some intestinal parasites found in cats can also be transmitted to humans through the cat's bedding or litter box.

While many studies suggest that cats should not sleep with humans, there is no definitive answer. If you do decide to share your bed with your cat, it's crucial to prioritize hygiene and ensure regular vaccinations and deworming. This not only shows responsibility towards your cat but also towards your own health. And of course, it's important that your cat knows how to use the litter box properly, or else you might find yourself with an unexpected surprise each morning.