8 Health Risks of Sleeping With Cats

Hey there, buddy! If you've got a pet cat, you've probably crashed out with your furry friend at some point, right? But, do you know if there are any dangers to snoozing with your kitty, including the health risks of sleeping with cats?

Sure, it's super comfy to catch some on that soft kitty fur. According to data from the Animal Behavior College, two out of three cat owners let their cats join them in bed. But, doing it too often isn't a great idea. So, is it cool to sleep with your cat? Let's dive into that a bit more and find out!

Know the Health Risks of Sleeping with Your Cat

No doubt, these cats can be cozy bed buddies for you. Cats tend to be still, calm, and have warm bodies. However, experts say this habit isn't recommended because it can impact your health. Here are some health risks of sleeping with cats that you should be aware of, such as:

1. Sleep Gets Disrupted

Some cats just can't chill when you're trying to snooze. They might play with your hands or hair, dart around, purr, scratch stuff, or even meow loudly. Plus, cats are creatures of the night. All their nighttime antics and noise can seriously mess with your sleep schedule.

You can't catch peaceful because their presence keeps you awake at night. And hey, Mayo Clinic's research backs this up, saying at least 1 in 5 folks might have a rough time sleeping with their pets.

2. There's Sand on Your Cat's Fur

Another reason why sleeping with your cat can be a no-go is the risk of sand particles ending up on your bed, making you all itchy. It's pretty obvious that this doesn't make for a great sleep buddy, especially when you consider that the stuff in their litter box is their business, including their waste.

When those sand bits land on your bed, your sleep spot goes from clean to not-so-hygienic, with a potential party for bacteria and parasites.

3. Allergy Alert

Research from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America spills the beans that 3 out of 10 folks worldwide have pet hair allergies. To break it down, people allergic to kitty fur are twice as common as those allergic to dogs.

Sleeping with your cat can trigger these allergies, even after they've left your side. This happens because cat fur can linger on your blankets, sheets, and pillowcases after your feline friend has taken a stroll on your bed.

When people with allergies breathe in that cat hair, they can experience a whole range of symptoms, from sneezing, itching, rashes, a runny nose, red eyes, to even difficulty breathing.

4. Cats Can Spread Fleas

Cats that never take a bath, often hang out with other critters outdoors, and explore some pretty dirty places. So, there's a good chance they could pick up fleas along the way. If you let them crash in your bed, those fleas could hop onto your sheets and take a nibble on you.

Flea bites can itch like crazy, making you seriously uncomfortable. Think itching, redness, and swelling. For some folks, cat flea bites can even trigger severe allergic reactions, like trouble breathing.

5. Bacterial Infections

Another thing to be aware of when sleeping with your cat is that it can up the risk of bacterial infections. The bacteria in question include Pasteurella, Clostridium, Salmonella, and Bartonella.

These nasties can be transmitted in different ways, from urine and poop to kitty bites and scratches. And they can target various organs, ranging from the respiratory system and digestive tract to even your brain.

6. Parasites Spreading on Your Bed

It's not just fleas and bacteria you need to worry about when snoozing with your cat. There are plenty of other parasites they can pass on to you while you're catching cats. Some of these little freeloaders include roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, ringworms, and more.

These parasites usually hitch a ride from their droppings. Of course, this can happen because when your cat hops onto your bed, they might bring along bits of urine, poop, and dirty litter in the nooks and crannies of their paws. If these parasites get inside your body, they can cause all sorts of issues, from skin problems to digestive disturbances.

7. Could Lead to Infertility

Does your cat love outdoor adventures and occasionally dine in the neighborhood trash cans? If so, watch out, because your furry friend might be carrying a parasite called toxoplasma.

Especially if your beloved furball doesn't get regular baths, this parasitic infection can spread to humans through infected cat poop. So, you need to be extra cautious when cleaning up their litter box and living area.

But don't worry to much, not all cats carry toxoplasma, especially if you're diligent about keeping things clean, monitoring what they eat, and regularly checking in with the vet for their health.

8. Harmful for the Little Ones

The final health risk of sleeping with cats is if you have a baby or a young child sleeping with you, it's better to keep them away from the cat. Cats might accidentally snuggle up on the baby's chest or face, which could make it hard for the little one to breathe.

Plus, those cat scratches and bites can transmit dangerous diseases to the baby. The same goes for any litter crumbs and urine on their paws. Babies and young kids are super vulnerable. So, it's a must to keep them separate from the cat.

Tips to Care for Cats Properly While Minimizing Health Risks

To help you maintain a healthy and happy relationship with your cat, we've compiled some essential tips to take care of your furry companion while minimizing health risks.

1. Regular Vet Visits

One of the most crucial aspects of cat care is scheduling regular check-ups with a veterinarian. This ensures that your cat receives necessary vaccinations, preventive treatments for parasites, and timely health assessments. Routine vet visits can catch potential health issues early, preventing them from becoming serious problems.

2. Proper Nutrition

Feeding your cat a balanced diet is vital for their overall health. Consult with your vet to determine the appropriate type and amount of food for your cat's age, size, and specific needs. Avoid feeding your cat human food, as some can be toxic to them.

3. Fresh Water Supply

Always provide fresh, clean water for your cat. Hydration is key to preventing urinary tract issues and promoting overall health. Clean your cat's water bowl regularly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

4. Litter Box Hygiene

Maintain a clean litter box environment by scooping waste daily and changing the litter regularly. This practice helps prevent the spread of diseases and maintains your cat's comfort and hygiene.

5. Parasite Control

Keep your cat protected from fleas, ticks, and worms through preventive treatments recommended by your vet. Parasites can not only make your cat sick but also pose health risks to you and your family.

In conclusion, caring for your cat properly involves a combination of love, attention, and responsibility, all of which are essential for preventing the potential health risks of sleeping with cats. By following these tips and being attentive to your cat's needs, you can enjoy a long and fulfilling companionship with your cats.