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How To Get A Good Night’s Sleep With Your Cat

cat naps

It is believed that cats have lived with humans for around 12,000 years. In Ancient Egypt, cats were revered and treasured. Today, cats are still the most popular pets on Earth, outnumbering dogs by a factor of three to one.

25% of US homes have a cat as a pet according to the American Veterinary Association and why not? Cats are easy to take care of. They self-groom and they smell better than dogs. Cats are quieter than dogs and you don’t have to take them for walks.

Nearly two-thirds of cat owners sleep with their pet. Yet, the jury is out on whether you should sleep with your cat or not. Sleeping with a cat can offer both cat and human a sense of security. The rhythmic breathing may help to reduce stress and the warmth is comforting. Petting an animal increases levels of oxytocin, the feel-good hormone. At the same time, it reduces the stress hormone cortisol which may lower blood pressure.

There is one small problem with sleeping with a cat. Cats are nocturnal so they may disturb your sleep at night. Though cats sleep up to 16 hours a day, their favourite playtime is in the dead of night. This infographic offers some useful hints on how to have a peaceful night sleeping with your cat.

If you have decided that your cat will make a good bedfellow, take good care of it and make sure that it visits the vet on a regular basis. Cats can carry parasites and fungal infections and you don’t want them bringing that into your bed.

If you don’t have allergies and your cat brings you comfort at night, there is no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy the shared warmth and comfort of nighttime kitty cuddle.