From comfort and companionship to the occasional midnight shuffle, sharing your bedroom with a furry friend can be both heart-warming and challenging. For many pet owners, the question arises: is it truly healthy to have your dog or cat in bed with you, or should there be boundaries? We spoke with a vet to explore the pros, cons, and practical advice for creating harmony between you and your pets at bedtime.

Do you think it’s healthy for pets and their owners to share the bed, or is it better to keep some boundaries?

Vet: It really depends on the individual household. For many people, having their pet close at night brings comfort and strengthens the bond. For others, it can mean less sleep or even worsen allergies. I usually tell clients: if both you and your pet are happy and well-rested, it’s fine. If not, setting boundaries is the healthier choice.

What are some of the biggest pros and cons you see when pets sleep in the bedroom?

Vet: On the plus side, pets offer warmth, security, and companionship. For people who live alone, it can feel especially reassuring. The downside is potential sleep disruptions, pets move around, snore, or need to go out at night. There’s also the risk of bringing in dirt or fur, which not everyone loves in their sheets.

Can having a dog or cat in bed actually improve our sleep — or does it tend to disturb it?

Vet: Interestingly, studies show it can go both ways. Some owners feel more relaxed and fall asleep faster with their pet nearby. Others wake up more often during the night. A small cat curling at your feet might be soothing, but a large dog sprawled across the pillows is another story!

Are there any health or hygiene issues owners should keep in mind before letting their furry friend snuggle under the covers?

Vet: Yes, make sure pets are up to date with flea, tick, and worm prevention. Keep their paws clean if they’re outdoors, and wash bedding regularly. If anyone in the household has asthma or allergies, it may not be the best idea to have pets in bed.

If someone is thinking about inviting their pet into the bedroom for the first time, what’s your top piece of advice?

Vet: Start with boundaries. For example, allow them on top of the covers, but not under them. Give them their own blanket or pillow so they know where they belong. That way, you get the closeness without too much chaos.

At the end of the day, whether you let your pet snuggle under the covers or keep them in their own cosy corner comes down to what feels right for your household. The most important thing is making sure everyone two-legged and four-legged alike is comfortable, healthy, and well-rested. After all, the bond we share with our pets is one of life’s greatest comforts, and finding the right balance makes that bond even stronger.