Should you let your cat sleep in bed with you? I personally let that happen. It feels nice and comfy to have your cat sleeping on a bed with you — some literally on your head, but here is what you need to know.
As a rule, cats want to be as close to their human counterparts as possible and many humans seem to prefer it that way. Allowing your cat to cuddle up with you at night can help reduce stress, potentially calming anxiety and may help you fall asleep more quickly.
Experts say being aware of the risks that can come from sharing your beds with cats can help you avoid health hazards.
The downside is that cats are nocturnal animals. The human sleeper may have their sleep interrupted in the wee hours of the night or be woken up at a very early hour. Many cats like to play and will scratch at or even bite at the human feet moving around under the covers.
Having your cat in your bed can also promote dominance within the animal - they begin to feel like it is their territory and could get agitated if anyone else enters the bed.
There are other problems, such as allergy to cat hair or dander. Cats may also want to cozy up to babies and infants — taking on their own caregiver roles in the house — but experts say cats shouldn’t spend the night with the littlest ones in your home, because there’s a risk a cat could unintentionally suffocate a baby by sleeping on its chest or face. If the cat is startled or frightened, the baby can get bitten, scratched, or trampled on as the cat tries to run or jump away.
Adults and children with compromised immune systems due to certain human diseases may be at a higher risk for contracting diseases from animals. Outdoor cats are exposed to more disease carriers. This includes other outdoor cats, feral cats, prey, worms, fleas, ticks, mosquitos, and a plethora of other insects. What kinds of diseases? Gastrointestinal worms, giardiasis, ringworm, toxoplasmosis.
The bottom line - there are some basic tips for pet owners on how to reduce those health risks and hazards from your cat.
Never let cats sleep with babies.
Adopt kittens from disease-free catteries.
Keep your cat strictly indoor, bath and brush it regularly.
Regularly take your cat to the vet and keep up to date on immunizations.
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