Mary Allen
A study by US scientists found that most pet owners have a significantly better quality of sleep when their four-legged friend spends the night in bed next to them.
The sleep researchers at the Mayo Sleep Clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona, surveyed 150 patients about their sleep quality – 74 study participants owned pets. More than half of these respondents stated that they slept in bed with a dog or cat. The majority of the subjects stated that they found this to be reassuring. The feeling of safety and security was often emphasized.
Only 20% of pet owners complained that the animals disturbed their sleep by snoring, walking around, or going to the toilet.
Singles & People Living Alone Benefit in Particular
“People who sleep alone and without a partner say they can sleep much better and more deeply with an animal by their side,” says Lois Krahn, author of the study, as reported by GEO.
It has been known for some time that animals are quite capable of reducing stress in humans and conveying security. But the pets also benefit from the trust, because less stress means a lower risk of heart disease. This applies both to sleeping next to each other and to cuddling together on the couch. Nevertheless, with such close contact, appropriate hygienic measures – such as changing the bed linen more often – should not be forgotten.