Healthy sleep thieves: scientists told how dangerous it is to live with pets

For thousands of years, humans and pets have lived side by side. Dozens of studies show that having a cat or dog at home has a positive effect on our psychological health, but a new study also suggests that pets increase the risk of sleep disorders. ScitTechDaily.

From Lincoln Memorial University (USA), Dr. In a new study led by Lauren Wisniesky, scientists focused on examining how keeping pets in the home affects human health. The scientists used data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES) for 2005-2006.

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On the one hand, pets can be good for our sleep as they give us a sense of security and companionship, which can lead to lower levels of anxiety, stress and depression. But on the other hand, pets literally disrupt our sleep.

Wisniesky said he and his colleagues are trying to determine if there is a link between pets, sleep quality, and sleep disturbances. Among other things, the study took into account aspects such as snoring, waking up at night, needing sleeping pills, and twitching of the legs.

During the study, the scientists created logistic regression models with many different options, including factors such as:

• lack of rest;
• numbness;
• lack of sleep;
• falling asleep for more than 15 minutes;
• Sleeping less than 6 hours.

The researchers found that there was less difference in sleep quality between cat owners and non-pet owners compared to dog owners and non-pet owners.

The researchers found that having a dog in the home was associated with a higher probability of sleep disturbance, while having a cat in the home was associated with a higher probability of leg twitching. According to Wisniesky, her work with colleagues confirms the results of her colleagues’ work, which also found that the presence of pets negatively affects sleep quality.

Based on these results and further research, the scientists believe education courses could be developed to inform pet owners about the risks of sleep disorders and how to avoid them.

Previously Focus wrote this Scientists rank the most hostile dog breeds.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that may affect your health. If you have problems, contact a professional.