The surprising number of Aussies letting pets sleep in bed with them

There are officially two types of pet owners in Australia: those who let their furry friend share their bed and those who don't.

That's according to new research from Compare the Market which has found 48.7 per cent of cat or dog owners let their pets sleep in bed with them.

This is an increase on the previous year, during which only 41.4 per cent of pet owners shared their bed with their canines or felines.

Watch the video above.

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Interestingly, there is also a generational divide with generation Z most likely to let their cats or dogs sleep with them.

The survey found 60.9 per cent of Gen Z pet owners share a bed with pets, followed distantly by 49.1 per cent of Baby Boomers and 47.9 per cent of Gen X.

That leaves Millennials as the generation least keen on the practice, with only 42.2 per cent doing it.

Letting pets sleep on or in your bed is a controversial act, with some viewing it as unhygienic while others find it comforting for both the animal and owner.

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"It's a 'tail' as old as time and while it's one of the most debatable topics across Aussie households, it appears that half of us really do think pets belong in bed with us," Adrian Taylor, Compare the Market's Executive General Manager for General Insurance and pet insurance expert.

"While some argue that letting your canine or puss sleep in bed causes health issues, disrupted sleep and arguments between partners, others say it makes them feel safe and loved."

"Regardless, no matter how we look at it, there are some seriously spoiled animals across Australia. We give them the best food that money can buy and we buy them all the treats and toys we can to ensure that they're entertained, but it's important never to forget their health."

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According to vet Dr Katrina Warren, having pets in or on your bed isn't an issue as long as you keep a few things in mind.

"Cons are obviously hygiene issues, it's important that you regularly wash your bedding and I'm a big fan of using a throw rug on top. Plus, it's important they're regularly wormed and you keep their flea control up to date," she said.

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