Cat and Dog Zoomies: Everything You Need to Know

Key Takeaways

• Zoomies have a scientific name – While “zoomies” is the more commonly used term, the official name for the occurrence is frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs)
• Triggers vary by species – Both dogs and cats can experience zoomies due to periods of happiness, but dogs more often exhibit them when an owner returns or following baths, and cats will exhibit them when their hunting instincts take over at dawn and dusk
• Keep your pet safe – On their own, zoomies aren’t really concerning, but owners should ensure that their environments are safe and that their pet isn’t showing signs of anxiety or pain

It’s a familiar sight. It’s late at night and your dog or cat is zipping through the house like they just saw a ghost. Don’t worry, you’re not suddenly in an episode of Scooby Doo – you’re just witnessing zoomies, also called midnight crazies, scrumbling, mad half-hours, and, officially, frenetic random activity periods.

Not to worry, though, because zoomies are totally normal. Many animals, including dogs and cats, need to release pent-up energy at specific periods so they can get back to their very important snoozing schedules. In this post, we take a look at zoomies, what causes them, and what steps owners should take when they occur.

Why Do Dogs Get the Zoomies?

Dog zoomies are usually the result of either joy or relief, brought about by both external stimuli and emotional and physiological triggers.

Happy Triggers

• Excitement – Different exciting factors can bring about zoomies in a dog, including an owner coming home after an extended period, a leash being picked up, or a toy being shown
• Play – Periods of play or the beginning of keep-away games can get your dog very excited, resulting in zoomies
• The “Witching Hour” – For many dogs, the hours between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. align with their internal biological rhythms that promote increased activity, leading to zoomies

Relief Triggers

Along with periods of happiness, feelings of relief can bring on zoomies as well, with some notable examples including:

• After a bath – Though many dogs enjoy taking baths, they can still want to remove the water and “clean” scent from their fur afterwards so that they feel “normal.” During this, they may run around excitedly.
• After defecation – Zoomies can follow a walk or a trip to the yard that results in defecation, since dogs can feel a sense of relief.
• After a period of stress – If your dog has been in their crate for a period, or has otherwise been cooped up all day, they may have a lot of nervous energy to burn off, and zoomies are just what the doctor ordered.

Why Do Cats Get the Zoomies?

Like dogs, cats can also experience zoomies, though their triggers are quite different from those of dogs.

Biological and Instinctual Triggers

• Crepuscular nature – Cats tend to be more active during dawn and dusk due to their innate predatory instincts. Due to this, zoomies for cats are often exhibited in the evening and early morning hours.
• Hunting instincts – The sprints, sharp turns, and agility exhibited during zoomies mimics the movements needed to effectively hunt prey, so cats actually refine their abilities every time they go wild throughout your home.
• Sleep habits – Cats can sleep for as much as 12 to 16 hours a day, so zoomies can help them to invigorate their minds and bodies following long periods of rest.

The Vagus Nerve Trigger

Like dogs, cats can experience relief following defecation, but their unique anatomy can actually lead to an increase in zoomies when compared to dogs. It’s all because of the vagus nerve, which runs from the brainstem of a cat to their colon.

When cats defecate, this nerve is often stimulated, which results in a kind of a “high” and a burst of energy. This is why you will often see a cat sprinting out of their litter box at a frantic pace. Don’t worry, since in most cases it’s completely harmless behavior.

However, if you notice that your cat is engaging in zoomies and is vocalizing and/or missing their litter box, they could be dealing with a urinary or intestinal blockage, which can be very dangerous. Male cats especially are prone to urinary blockages. If you notice this behavior, get your pet to the vet quickly to have them checked out.

Can Zoomies Be Dangerous?

Aside from the blockage possibility mentioned above, in general, zoomies are not harmful or connected to any harmful phenomena. Other factors, however, can pose risks for your pet so you want to make sure you keep the following in mind to ensure your dog or cat remains safe:

• Avoid home hazards – Slippery floors, sharp corners on furniture, and stairs can all create problems and lead to injuries during zoomies if your pet is too worked up. Try to “pet-proof” your home to avoid as many of these hazards as possible, and try to corral your pet into safe areas when zoomies hit.
• Don’t chase – When you chase your dog or cat during zoomies it can make them think it’s a new game, which can encourage more erratic behavior and possibly lead to injury. Instead, try to recall your pet and calm them with a toy or a treat.
• Watch for anxiety triggers – Happy zoomies are accompanied by loose, bouncy body language, while stressed and fearful zoomies will be accompanied by wild eyes and crouched body posture. If your pet is exhibiting the latter, they may be distressed rather than happy.
• Be mindful of age – Older pets can experience arthritis, making zoomie sessions painful. Settling down your pet as quickly as possible can be the best thing you can do for them if they suffer from such issues.

FAQs About Zoomies

Do cats and dogs grow out of the zoomies as they age?

Zoomies are most common in puppies and kittens because of their rapid growth and high energy levels, but they can still happen at any age. Even senior pets may zoom when they are feeling healthy and happy.

Why does my dog tuck their butt while running in circles?

Running with a hunched position or “butt tuck” is a standard zoomie posture that lets dogs achieve maximum speed and make tight turns during bursts of energy.

Is it okay to stop a dog or cat having the zoomies?

It’s usually best to let zoomies run their course unless your pet is in immediate danger, like near a road. Interrupting them can be difficult, and they typically exhaust themselves naturally within a few minutes.

Need a Break from the Zoomies? Let Pet Palace Help

If your dog has been experiencing the zoomies a lot lately, let them cut loose at Pet Palace. Our doggy day care and dog boarding will help them get their energy out during play sessions so you can relax yourself or take care of some errands.

Reach out to our team today to book an appointment!

Categories: All Posts, Cats, Dogs, Tips for Your Pets