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Why you shouldn’t let your cat sleep in bed with you

The risks involved.
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Snuggling up with your fur baby might sound cosy, but there are health risks associated with cats in your bed.

Cat in bed
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1. Waste matter

Detritus from your cat’s litter tray can end up in bed, exposing you to dirt and all manner of bacteria.

Cat in bed
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2. Bacteria

Infections such as salmonellosis and bartonellosis can be transmitted to humans. 

Cat in bed
(Credit: Getty)

3. Parasites

Cats can bring a myriad types of parasites into your bed, including fleas and mites. Intestinal parasites can also be transferred through exposure to cat fecal matter.

Cat and child in bed
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4. Safety issues with children

There is a risk that cats can accidentally smother young children in bed.

Cat asleep
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5. Less sleep

Cats are often active at night, so it can take a toll on getting a good sleep.

Getty
(Credit: Getty)

6. Allergies

Cats can trigger allergies in up to 30 per cent of people, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

RELATED: Could growing up with pets be the secret to happiness?

RELATED: 8 ways pets boost your health and wellbeing

Profile picture of Jane Pine
Jane Pine

Jane Pine is a digital content editor and has worked in magazines for over 20 years. She's a diehard DIY fan and can't go past a good Ikea hack.

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