Whether it’s canine cuddles you enjoy most or taking a quick cat nap alongside your furry feline, your four-legged friends may or may not be causing problems with your sleep apnea. Making them sleep on the floor or in their own bed might seem cruel, but is it necessary? Could it mean better rest so that you can be ready for that morning walk they’ll require? Or will it cause you to experience restlessness without them nearby? Keep reading to find out how you should handle the idea of having your pets sleep in your bed.
Sharing Your Bed: Why Pets Are Often Welcome
According to a study published by the Mayo Clinic’s Center for Sleep Medicine in Scottsdale, AZ, more than half (65%) of households in the U.S. have a pet.
While there are plenty of advantages of having a furry companion in the home (i.e., less stress, friendship, etc.) much research is required to determine just what kind of effect cats and dogs specifically can have on sleep.
Out of 150 people surveyed for the published study, 74 stated they owned a pet with 20% admitting the behaviors of their cats or dogs caused disrupted sleep (i.e., snoring, wandering, panting, etc.). However, 41% shared that their pet’s presence actually helped improve their quality of sleep.
Whether it is a cat or a dog, their warmth, security, and closeness can be essential in helping some individuals become more relaxed as they drift off to sleep each night.
Can Sharing Your Bed with a Pet Hinder Your Sleep Apnea?
There is no definite information that indicates pets sleeping in the same bed causes symptoms of sleep apnea to worsen; however, there are some indicators that you should be mindful of if you are undergoing treatment.
Any debris, dander, or hair that comes off your pet can be problematic should you breathe it in throughout the night.
However, the potential problems that can exist when having your cat or dog nearby are slim. The real issue is the kind of sleep quality you achieve. This is often determined by how much time you spend asleep, when you go to bed and wake up, and what lifestyle habits you practice each day (i.e., napping, drinking alcohol, screen time, etc.).
Sleeping with your pet is unlikely to pose a significant problem if you have sleep apnea; however, if you notice your nightly rest worsens, maybe consider having them sleep elsewhere. Most importantly, make sure you are talking to your sleep dentist to determine the most effective way to treat your apnea so that you can enjoy better overall health.
About the Practice
Our team at Star Sleep & Wellness in McKinney wants to make sure you are getting the high-quality sleep you deserve. We love animals, and we know you do too, which is why we understand how helpful it can be to have your furry friend nearby when going to bed. Simply monitor your symptoms and make adjustments if necessary. Otherwise, contact us to schedule an appointment if you have questions about your sleep apnea treatment or whether you have concerns about letting your pooch or friendly feline share your bed.