Bored Panda reached out to the PDSA, the UK's leading veterinary charity, for some insights about sleeping with our dogs and cats.

PDSA Vet Nurse Gemma Renwick was kind enough to shed some light on everything!

"Since ancient times dogs and their ancestors have been drawn close to humans for both warmth and companionship. Not a lot has changed today with many of us choosing to snuggle up at bedtime with our favourite pet pal," she explained to us.

"And it’s safe to say that lots of pets think it’s pretty awesome sleeping with us, too. Lots of pets grow up sleeping next to their parents or siblings, so it’s no surprise that our pets want to share a sleeping space with their human families too!"

According to Renwick, there are many potential benefits from allowing your pet to share your bed. That being said, there are some hidden risks to consider, too.

"For both you and your pet, sleeping in your bed may bring mutual benefits such as reduced anxiety, increased security and reduced stress," she told Bored Panda.

"Whether you’re for pets in bed or against them, it’s really a matter of personal preference. Some people find they feel more protected and comfortable with their dog sleeping in bed, while others may find them distracting. Plus there are plenty of other considerations such as allergies, germs and territorial behaviors, as well as considering whether there are children present. It’s whatever best suits your lifestyle and your individual pet’s needs," she said.

"If you lay down at night worrying about each sound, anxious that you may not hear an intruder, or that there could be a fire or other potential threats, being able to rely on your pet’s keen sense of smell and hearing may just help you sleep better. They will often become restless or bark if they sense, hear or smell anything unusual. A sense of feeling safe can be comforting to people who live alone, are older or more vulnerable. For those battling loneliness, grief or mental health problems, having the companionship of a pet both day and night can provide comfort and warmth for a better night’s sleep."

On the flip side, there are a few risks to consider both for the owner and their pets.

"Although sleeping with pets brings many people joy, sleeping with an animal may come with some drawbacks. Some pets, especially larger ones, are prone to sprawling out and taking up more than their fair share of bed space. The opposite of a good night's sleep, sleep disturbances when sharing a bed may vary depending on the type of pet," PDSA Vet Nurse Gemma Renwick told us.

"The feeling may not be mutual, PDSA’s Animal Wellbeing report 2024 showed that over 5 million dogs in the UK aren’t getting enough sleep. Our furry friends need a minimum of 14-16 hours sleep in a 24-hour period. If your pet prefers to take themselves to the end of the bed, or to their own bed or another room altogether, you should allow them to sleep where they are most comfortable."

There are other important factors to consider, too. For example when it comes to kids and their pets. "We know our children can form wonderful bonds growing up with pets, but we would never advise that your pet sleeps in bed with your child, or in an adult bed that a child may sleep in. Sudden movements, strange noises can all startle a pet causing them to act out. Pets can also become very possessive over their human family members which could result in bite injuries," the PDSA representative told Bored Panda.

"Pets can carry harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, putting the families they live with at risk. This can also include muddy paws! For this reason, people who are more prone to infection, those who are immunocompromised, and those who have an open wound might want to avoid sleeping with pets," she said.

Meanwhile, some medications, including regular preventive parasite treatments are not safe to use if your pet sleeps on your bed. "Always check with your Vet Team that any medication is suitable for use," Renwick said.

"People with pet allergies may want to consider keeping pets out of the bedroom, even during the day, to avoid exposure to pet hair and dander during sleep."

According to the AARP, sleeping with your pets can make you feel safer and more secure. Especially if you're anxious or worried about potential threats.

Interacting with pets also reduces stress and can be good for your mental health. This benefit extends to sleeping alongside your animals, too.

"Humans who suffer from depression or PTSD do very well mentally when sleeping with their pets. The pet provides comfort, safety and stability for a better night’s sleep," holistic veterinarian Ambika Vaid told the AARP.

"Some people are in a place in their life where they really don’t have anyone else; they’re either at the end of their life or have lost a companion. Animals can become that companion, and sleeping with them reduces the feeling of loneliness that plagues people struggling with grief," she explained.

On the other hand, animals can sometimes bring dirt, germs, and even parasites into your bed. Meanwhile, if you suffer from asthma or allergies, you might not want to cuddle up with your beloved floofs in bed, even if you'd otherwise love to.

If your pet is an anxious sleeper, they might affect the quality of your rest, too. Furthermore, if you and your partner want some romantic time alone, it can be very awkward to do anything with your pets expecting to sleep in your bed.

Remember that no matter if you sleep with your pets or if they have their own beds elsewhere, you shouldn’t feel guilty or pressured either way. You don’t love your cats and dogs any less if you don’t welcome them into your bed. Enforcing some boundaries with your pets doesn’t mean that you don’t care for them.

With that being said, it’s also hard to argue against the absolute coziness of having your pet by your side as you enter dreamland. We all need contact to stay physically and mentally healthy, so it really does matter if you have someone next to you.

From our perspective, we know lots of people in both camps. Some can’t stand the thought of pushing their cattos or doggos out of bed. However, others feel that there’s a need to have some stricter rules at home. Both groups love their pets very much.

Proponents of stricter boundaries might argue that cats and dogs—even though they’re a respected part of the family—aren’t the same as human beings. And so, they might get their own separate sleeping corner and a food bowl instead of being welcomed in bed or right at the dinner table.

Of course, not everyone thinks this way. Others might say that it’s exactly because you view your pets as family members that you should treat them accordingly. If they want to snuggle up at night, you don’t push them away. If they want a place at the table, you let them sit on a chair next to you. Again, there are no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answers here, only what feels natural at home, given your family dynamics.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on the topic, dear Pandas! Do you let your pets sleep with you in bed or not? Why (not)? How does sleeping with all of your cats and dogs impact the quality of your sleep? Do you feel that you’re better or worse rested?

Share your opinions and experiences in the comments. Oh, and tell your pets we said ‘hi!’