When it comes to being a pet parent [1], it's generally a blessing: animals offer comfort and love, and you get to come home to your best friend every day [2]. However, the one time when your furry friend sprawling out on the bed might not be as cute as normal? When you're trying to have sex! It turns out, having a pet can actually affect your sex life (and not for the better).

In a recent study at Pet Life Today [3], over 1,000 people who were currently in a relationship with a pet owner were asked to admit to how often they felt as though they were competing for their partner's attention with a pet. The results? Thirty-one percent of people dating dog owners and 26 percent of people dating cat owners said that their partner's pet has interfered with sex and emotional intimacy [4]. Of the 40 percent of people who felt in competition with their partner's pet, 22 percent said it was over attention, 19 percent said affection, and 17 percent said love. What's more, 15 percent of the time, 63 percent of people have either asked before or would consider asking a partner to give up their pet. (FYI, don't go this route unless you're willing to risk losing your partner, as nearly 70 percent of people would break up with their partner if they asked them to get rid of their pet.)

Your best bet is to discuss being pet parents together and to find ways to keep the spark and intimacy alive [5] in your relationship. To still having great sex [6] while owning a pet, keep reading for key tips from Maria Sullivan, VP and relationship expert from Dating.com [7].

Remember to Prioritise Yourself

Taking on the responsibility of adopting a pet is similar to the responsibility you hold when starting a family. While cats and dogs are way less fragile than babies, they still require a lot of care, love, and attention. "This new priority can easily shift the dynamic of your relationship and, of course, your sex life," Maria told POPSUGAR. Why? It's hard not to love our pets infinitely. "Sometimes we forget that they are indeed just animals, and put them before our own priorities. This can impact the time put aside for romantic and intimate moments with your significant other." Remember that you matter, too, so make sure you needs are still being met.

Designate a Set Location For Your Pet to Hang

Give your pet a set location so they can be on their own when you're busy with your partner, without feeling lonely or scared. "It's crucial to make sure that your pet has its own designated space within the house," she continued. "Train it to stay in its crate or on its bed when you're seeking intimacy with your partner." If your pet enjoys its space and has plenty of distractions to play with, you'll both forget they're even home until you're done and ready to snuggle up with them again.

Get Them to Sleep Alone

Make sure your pet doesn't get accustomed to sleeping with you in bed, as that'll take over the space that should be for your partner. It can be cute and cuddly to snuggle up next to your pet, but once they feel how soft your duvet is, they'll likely cry to come back every night, and you won't want to say no to them. "Say goodbye to spooning," Maria said. "Ensuring they sleep on their own will allow you to create distance." Get them a bed they'll love [8] and want to sleep soundly in.

Hire a Dog Walker or Nanny For Special Occasions

The responsibility of constantly having to walk your dog or watch your pet on the weekend can get in the way of your relationship, so consider getting a dog walker or nanny for those moments when you need some extra lovin' with your partner. "Those early wake ups and late-night runs are sure to interrupt your sex life," she said. "Spend the extra money to make sure your partner feels prioritised, especially on special occasions."

Soundproof Your Room

Adding a curtain by the door or some sound absorption padding might seem a little unnecessary, but it will definitely cut down on any barking or meowing from your pet while you're spending quality alone time together. "If your pet can hear you or your furniture, it's more likely to make noises, too," she added.

Make Time For Date Nights Out

If you can't send your pet away to spend a night with a friend or family member, get out of the house and have a romantic dinner or drink at the bar after work before coming home to your pet. "Even if you end up coming home to wagging tails, you'll feel an intimate connection with your partner that will make sharing a space with your pet for the night less of a romance killer," Maria said. And then you'll love spending time with both of them as a cute little family.