Many pet owners love the companionship of their furry friends—even at bedtime. In fact, some claim that they cannot sleep without their pet in close proximity. But while the emotional benefits are clear, what does the science say about how pets affect your sleep quality, especially if you have sleep apnea? Here’s what you need to know about the connection between sleep apnea and pets, along with some tips for managing your symptoms.
Sleeping with Pets: The Good & The Bad
For many people, pets provide a sense of safety, calm, and routine. Their presence can reduce stress and anxiety, which may help you fall asleep faster. This can be especially helpful for those who live alone or experience nighttime anxiety. Studies have repeatedly shown that having a dog in the room may promote feelings of security, which can encourage a more restful night.
However, pets don’t follow human sleep cycles—and dogs might bark or move during the night, too, for reasons beyond our human understanding. Cats are also famous for the night-time zoomies! These disruptions might not fully wake you up, but they can interrupt your deep sleep, which is vital for feeling rested the next day.
For people with sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea, these disturbances can worsen already-fragile sleep. If you use a CPAP machine or oral appliance to manage your condition, having a restless pet in your bed may also add another challenge in maintaining uninterrupted sleep; your pet might try to disturb your machine or appliance.
It’s also worth mentioning that even if you’re not allergic to your pet, their dander, fur, and dust can irritate your airways simply from them being near you. Needless to say, this can also have a very negative effect on your apnea.
Tips for Getting Better Sleep with Your Pet
If you love the idea of having your pet nearby but want to protect your sleep, consider these options:
- Let your pet sleep in the same room, but just not in your bed.
- Keep a consistent bedtime routine for both you and your pet.
- Invest in an air purifier to reduce allergens in the bedroom. Likewise, dust, sweep, and vacuum the space very frequently.
- Talk with your sleep dentist about using a custom-made oral appliance (if you aren’t already)—sleep apnea symptoms can be effectively managed with these devices.
Sleeping with your pet is a personal choice, but knowing when to rethink your arrangements and seeking treatment should be considered if it’s greatly affecting your sleep.
About the Practice
Our team here at Nelson Dental Sleep Medicine has proudly served the needs of patients in Wesley Chapel and the surrounding area for several years, offering a wide range of sleep apnea treatment services, including oral appliances. Dr. Jay A. Nelson is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, the American Academy of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine, and the American Board of Sleep & Breathing. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up an appointment, please reach out online or call today for assistance. Telephone: (813) 733-4169.