Doctor warns of vomiting and diarrhoea risks by sharing a bed with your pet

People are being warned by doctors to avoid sleeping in bed with their pets this autumn due to potential health risks. As Autumn approaches, pet owners may notice an increase in their furry friend’s hair shedding.

And whilst sharing your bed with your pet may seem like a cosy idea, recent findings reveal that it can do more harm than good. Experts at Happy Beds have teamed up with a top doctor to shed light on the hidden dangers of allowing pets to share your bed throughout autumn.

It comes as a recent study discovered that over half (58 per cent) of pets sleep on their owner’s beds, of which 15 pets (30 per cent) slept in the bed under their owner’s duvet. This is worrying given that the same study discovered that almost 1 in 4 (23 per cent) dogs were found to have fleas.

However, what’s more shocking is that 86 per cent of dogs and 32 per cent of cats tested positive for Enterobacteriaceae – a group of bacteria, which includes salmonella, E. coli, and shigella. Here’s what the bacteria can do:

• Salmonella: This can make you feel very sick with symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and sometimes even fever.
• E. coli: Some strains of E. coli are harmless, but others can cause severe illness. They can lead to diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and sometimes even kidney problems.
• Shigella: This bacteria can cause a disease called shigellosis. It leads to symptoms like diarrhoea, fever, and stomach cramps. Shigellosis can be quite uncomfortable and can spread easily in places with poor sanitation.

These bacteria are common causes of gastroenteritis in humans. According to the NHS, gastroenteritis is a very common condition that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. It’s usually caused by a bacterial or viral tummy bug. Symptoms include sudden, watery diarrhoea, feeling sick, vomiting, which can be projectile and a mild fever.

While your pet is likely to shed more when there’s a change in season, it is in fact, the animal dander that can cause serious health problems. Dander refers to tiny flakes of skin shed by humans or warm-blooded animals with fur, hair, or feathers.

These small particles can be inhaled through the air, causing potential problems with breathing and the lungs. Dr Deborah Lee of Dr Fox Online Pharmacy says: “Pet dander is a common cause of allergy in children and adults.

“Encountering pet dander can cause allergic rhinitis, dermatitis, hives and asthma symptoms. When you breathe the animal dander particles into your lungs, your body’s immune cells recognise the dog or cat antigen as a foreign substance posing a threat to your health.

“As a result, an inflammatory reaction is initiated, and an antibody called Ig E is released. Cells called mast cells release histamine, which causes smooth muscle contraction, causing the airways to constrict, meaning you cannot get so much air into the lungs.

“Histamine also causes an increase in bronchial secretions and swelling. This is why pet-induced asthma gives you all those unpleasant asthma symptoms – cough, wheeze and feel chest tightness and shortness of breath.”

Seven hacks for removing pet hair around the home

As hard as it may be to say no to those puppy dog eyes, steering clear of sharing a bed with your pet is probably for the best. However, there are other ways to reduce the number of pet hairs hiding around your home, which Happy Beds have highlighted below:

1. Use an Air Purifier: Adding an air purifier to your bedroom is a great way to combat pet hair and allergens. Not only does it help remove pet dander from the air, but it also improves the overall air quality in your home. This can be particularly beneficial for those with allergies or asthma.
2. Invest in Pet Hair Attachments for Your Vacuum: To make your vacuum more effective at picking up pet hair, consider purchasing specialized pet hair attachments. These attachments are designed to capture even the most stubborn pet hair from carpets, upholstery, and hard-to-reach corners.
3. Lint Roller as a Quick Fix: When you don’t have time for a thorough cleaning, keep a lint roller handy. Use it to quickly remove excess fur from your bedding, sofa, and other furniture. Regularly running a lint roller over these areas can help keep pet hair in check.
4. Fabric Softener Spray: If pet hair is deeply embedded in your fabric furnishings, try a homemade solution. Mix a cap full of fabric softener with water in a spray bottle. Spritz this solution onto the hairy areas and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This will help loosen the hair, making it easier to remove with a lint roller, vacuum, or brush.
5. Dryer Sheet Trick: If your pet has left hair on your bedding, use a dryer sheet to your advantage. Rubbing a dryer sheet back and forth on pillows or bedding generates static electricity, which attracts and lifts pet hair. This trick not only removes pet hair but leaves a pleasant scent behind.
6. Daily Pet Grooming: Regularly brushing your pet can significantly reduce shedding. This practice not only keeps your pet’s coat healthy but also minimizes loose hair from spreading around your home. Plus, it’s a great bonding activity with your furry friend.
7. Professional Grooming and De-shedding Shampoo: If your pet sheds excessively, consider taking them to a professional groomer. Groomers can use specialised tools and techniques to reduce shedding. If a trip to the groomer isn’t possible, look for de-shedding shampoos designed to minimize shedding. These shampoos can be used during your pet’s bath to help control hair loss.

By following these tips, you can keep your home cleaner and reduce the presence of pet hair, making it a more comfortable and hygienic environment for both you and your beloved pet.