Pet zoomies explained: why your dog or cat gets random bursts of energy

By Kristia Goodnight

Your pet, who was otherwise calm, is suddenly darting through the house at max speed in what seems to be a random and sudden burst of energy. They've caught a case of what many people call the zoomies.

What are the zoomies?

That sudden burst of frenetic and playful energy that your dog or cat experiences from time to time is commonly known as ‘the zoomies’.

During a zoomies episode, pets experience fast-paced and often unpredictable movements, including sprinting, spinning, leaping, and darting around the house or yard at max speed. Sometimes accompanied by exuberant barking or meowing, the pet is in an obviously excited mood.

While "zoomies" is the commonly used term among pet owners, the technical name for these episodes is "Frenetic Random Activity Periods" or FRAPs. These episodes are characterized by a burst of energy and excitement, and they are considered normal and natural behavior in both dogs and cats.

Zoomies can happen suddenly and seemingly out of nowhere, and they often bring joy and laughter to pet owners. It's important to note that while zoomies can sometimes appear wild and uncontrolled, they are usually harmless and are an expression of a happy and energetic pet.

These episodes are a way for pets to release pent-up energy, celebrate moments of joy, and engage with their primal instincts.

How long do zoomies last?

Some pets might have short, intense episodes that last only a few seconds or minutes, while others (particularly with very playful or excitable pets), zoomies can persist for up to half an hour or even longer.

It's important to understand that the length of a zoomie episode is influenced by various factors, including the individual pet's temperament, age, and overall energy level. Younger animals, such as puppies and kittens, are more likely to have more frequent and longer zoomies.

Additionally, some breeds known for their high energy levels, like Border Collies or Siamese cats, may experience longer and more frequent episodes of zoomies.

Do zoomies mean my pet is happy?

When you see your pet enjoying a burst of the zoomies, take it as a heartwarming display of their happiness and playfulness. When dogs or cats get the zoomies, they are typically expressing their excitement and enthusiasm.

These bursts of energy are often a reaction to something that has made your pet happy, like the arrival of a beloved family member or the anticipation of going for a walk.

While zoomies are a great sign of your pet's happiness, they are not the only sign of a contented pet. Dogs and cats express happiness in various ways, including wagging tails, purring, relaxed body language, and affectionate behavior.

Does zoomies mean my dog is bored?

While it's a common misconception that zoomies are a sign of boredom, they are typically more likely bursts of excitement, playfulness, or the need to release pent-up energy. Dogs engage in zoomies as a way to express their enthusiasm and happiness, rather than as a reaction to boredom.

Common signs of boredom in dogs include:

• excessive chewing
• digging
• excessive barking or whining
• restlessness
• loss of interest in their toys
• excessive licking or gnawing
• weight gain due to overeating
• attention-seeking behaviors like pawing and nudging

To address boredom, provide your dog with daily mental and physical activities, like walks, play, interactive toys, and positive training sessions, to keep their mind engaged and their energy well-directed.

What does it mean when a dog gets zoomies?

The zoomies can be triggered by a variety of factors and emotions:

• Released tension: One common reason for zoomies is to release pent-up energy. After a period of inactivity or rest, dogs may experience bursts of energy, and zoomies provide an outlet for that surplus energy.
• Warm-up: Dogs might engage in zoomies as a form of warming up before play or exercise. It's like a quick stretch and warm-up routine before more intense physical activity.
• Celebrating: Zoomies can be a way for dogs to celebrate positive experiences. For example, your dog might have zoomies when you return home after being away for a while, expressing their excitement and happiness at your return.
• Expressing excitement: Dogs can get zoomies when they're excited about something. This could be the anticipation of going for a walk, anticipation of dinner, receiving a treat, or encountering a favorite toy.
• Primal instincts: In some cases, zoomies can be a manifestation of your dog's primal instincts. Wild predators often engage in rapid movements when chasing prey, and domestic dogs may tap into this instinct during zoomies.
• Relieving pain: While less common, dogs might have zoomies to distract themselves from minor discomfort or pain. However, this is not the main reason for zoomies.

Zoomies are generally a harmless and natural behavior for dogs, and they are not indicative of any underlying problems. In fact, they are often seen as a charming and entertaining display of your dog's exuberance and happiness.

Why do dogs get the zoomies after a bath?

Dogs getting the zoomies after a bath is a common and amusing ritual. While not all dogs experience post-bath zoomies, there are several reasons why some dogs become extra energetic and playful after a bath:

Relief from the bath: Many dogs don't particularly enjoy bath time. They may find it uncomfortable or stressful. After the bath is over and they are finally dry, they may experience a sense of relief, which can lead to an energetic outburst.

Shaking off excess water: After a bath, dogs often instinctually shake their bodies to get rid of excess water. This shaking can transition into a zoomie session, as they feel lighter and more comfortable without the weight of wet fur.

Energy release: Bath time can be a somewhat sedentary experience for dogs, as they're usually confined to a small space and not moving much. Once the bath is over, they may have built up some energy that they want to expend, and zoomies provide the perfect opportunity for that.

Feeling fresh: Some dogs feel clean and refreshed after a bath. This newfound freshness can make them feel invigorated and happy, prompting them to catch the zoomies.

Positive association Over time, if your dog associates bath time with fun and enjoyable experiences, they may be more likely to express their excitement afterward through zoomies.

It's important to prioritize your dog's safety during post-bath zoomies, especially if they are indoors. Since they are wet, they could be more likely to slip and slide on hard surfaces.

Why do cats get the zoomies?

Cats, like dogs, also experience the zoomies. These sudden episodes of high energy are common in cats and can be due to several reasons:

• Pent-up energy: Cats tend to get plenty of rest and relaxation, but they are also naturally active animals. They may experience a buildup of energy that they need to release after a long nap.
• Before or after using the litter box: This behavior could be a way of marking their territory or simply a response to the relief of a necessary bodily function.
• Irritation: Cats can get agitated or irritated by certain stimuli in their environment. The zoomies may be a way for them to cope with this irritation or perceived threat.
• Acute pain: While rare, some cats may exhibit zoomies as a reaction to acute pain. This is a less common cause but should be considered if the behavior is unusual and accompanied by other signs of discomfort.
• Excitement: Just like dogs, cats can also have zoomies when they're excited. This could be due to the anticipation of a meal , the arrival of their owner, or the introduction of a new toy.

In most cases, zoomies are a sign of a happy and content cat. However, if your cat's zoomies seem excessively intense or frequent, or if they show any signs of distress or discomfort during these episodes, it's a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues that your cat could be otherwise concealing.

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Are zoomies good or bad for my cat?

Zoomies are typically a normal and harmless expression of your cat's energy and playfulness. Zoomies provide a healthy outlet for your cat to release pent-up energy, which is beneficial for their mental and physical stimulation needs.

Do cats grow out of the zoomies?

Cats tend to mellow out as they age, and their zoomies may become less frequent. Whether your cat will completely "grow out of" zoomies depends on various factors, including the individual cat's personality, age, and overall health.

However, some cats retain their playful spirit throughout their lives. It's important to remember that the frequency and intensity of zoomies can vary greatly between individual cats.

When is my cat most likely to get zoomies?

Many cats are naturally more active in the early morning and late evening hours due to being crepuscular in nature. You may find that your cat is more prone to having zoomies during these times, as they have bursts of energy to expend.

Other environmental triggers can set off a zoomie session like a refreshing nap, excitement over being fed, playtime, or being spooked by an unexpected noise. Understanding when your cat is most likely to have zoomies can help you anticipate and manage their playful bursts of energy.

How to stop cat zoomies at night

Cats are naturally more active during dawn and dusk but with consistent effort and attention to their needs, you can help minimize disruptive zoomie episodes during the night and ensure a more peaceful sleep for both you and your cat:

• Interactive play sessions with toys like feather wands to tire them out.
• Consider feeding your cat their main meal closer to bedtime.
• Use interactive or puzzle toys and feeders for mental stimulation.
• Before going to bed, play with your cat to help them release any remaining energy.
• Provide a cozy cat bed and make sure their litter box is clean.
• Use white noise machines or music to drown out nighttime noises.
• Avoid scolding or punishing your cat for the zoomies as this can create anxiety.

Pet zoomies explained

Understanding the reasons behind your pet's zoomies can help you appreciate and accommodate their playful moments better. The zoomies are a reminder of the joy and enthusiasm our furry friends bring into our lives. The next time your pet goes into zoomie mode, embrace the chaos and join in on the fun, it's all part of the wonderful world of pet ownership.

Kristia Goodnight is a freelance SEO Content Marketing Strategist with a specialty in pet content. She writes for multiple national brands on pet health, medical, care and grooming, nutrition, lifestyle, and training. Tia and her husband have two rescue cats, who share a passion for ear rubs and destroying her favorite armchair.