Diss company, Animed, reveals survey results on our sleeping habits with our pets

We are a nation of bed sharers when it comes to giving our furry friends somewhere to sleep, according to a Norfolk pet care company.

Fresh research shows that half of owners surveyed slept with their dogs, while 70 per cent are happy to curl up with their cats at night.

Of those who regularly sleep with their pets, 65 per cent said they considered them part of the family, 45 per cent said they found it safer and comforting, with 20 per cent sleeping better knowing they were there.

Jess Simmonds, a vet with Animed, based in Owen Road, Diss, which carried out the study, said it was better to teach your pets that they have their own beds.

She said: “It is a comforting feeling to curl up with your best friend at night but animals naturally wake up frequently, which often results in a disrupted sleep.

“Allergies might be affected by a pet sharing your bed. While pet hair and dander may not trouble during the day, these may overwhelm allergies if you’re in close proximity at a night.”

For anyone allowing their pets’ nocturnal habits to drift into the bedroom, they should, at least, ensure that flea, tick and worm treatments are up to date.