Sleeping with your cat: Sweet company or a health risk?

Health Hazards You Might Overlook
Even the cleanest cats can carry organisms and allergens that pose a risk to human health.

Zoonotic infections: Cats can transmit illnesses such as Cat Scratch Disease (which can cause fatigue and fever), Toxoplasmosis (especially risky for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals), fungal infections like Ringworm, and parasitic infections such as hookworms or tapeworms.

Parasites: Fleas and ticks may find their way into your bedding, even from cats treated with preventative products, potentially triggering infestations or diseases like rickettsiosis.

Allergens: Cats produce a protein called Fel D1 found in their saliva and skin, which can lead to sneezing, coughing, congestion, and even asthma in both allergic and previously non-allergic individuals.

Interrupted Sleep
Despite their calm demeanor, cats are naturally nocturnal and often become playful or restless at night.

For illustrative purposes only.v
If your pet is walking across your bed, pawing at your face, or purring loudly in the early hours, your sleep quality is likely to suffer. Interrupted rest can lead to daytime tiredness, mood swings, and lower productivity.

Continued on next page: