Written in collaboration with vets
Cat zoomies: what are they?
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If you’ve ever seen your cat frantically run around the room for no reason whatsoever, don’t be alarmed. This is a common, normal and entertaining behaviour in cats called zoomies, meaning ‘Frenetic Random Activity Periods’ (FRAPs). There are many reasons for these random bursts of energy, and in this article we explain what zoomies are, why cats get the zoomies and the benefits of this natural behaviour.
What Are Cat Zoomies?
The simple answer to ‘what are zoomies’ is ‘Frenetic Random Activity Periods’, or FRAPs for short. Zoomies are when cats have a sudden burst of energy and rapid movement, whereby your cat sprints and leaps from room to room. It allows them to release excess energy as well as exhibit their hunting instincts. Cats can get the zoomies at any time, but it’s common to see cat zoomies after pooping, during playtime or in the middle of the night. By understanding the meaning behind zoomies, you’ll be reassured your cat is engaging in normal and healthy behaviour. Read up on other common behaviours, such as why do cats hiss, to understand your cat better.
Common Triggers
There are various reasons behind why cats get the zoomies. We’ve listed some of the most common triggers below:
Playfulness
Cats are very playful, and oftentimes this is what zoomies are a reflection of. Cats can become excited by their toys, other pets or family members. They enjoy interactive play, particularly with laser pointers or wind-up toys, which can lead to frantic behaviour such as zooming all over the place.
Environment
Since they are highly sensitive creatures, cats can become stimulated by even the smallest changes in their environment, including new furniture, scents, animals or people. New stimuli can cause cats to get the zoomies to release their anxiety or excitement about the situation. You can also learn more about why cats meow to detect their mood and response to changes.
Pent-up Energy
The meaning of zoomies could be that your cat has pent-up energy. This is common for indoor cats who may not get as much physical exercise as outdoor cats, leading to excess energy that is then released through short and quick bursts. Make sure to plan regular playtime throughout the day, or you may find your cat pawing at you for attention.
Natural Hunting Instincts
Cats may also get the zoomies due to their natural hunting instincts, as in the wild cats would have had intense bursts of energy to catch prey. This instinct has continued in domesticated cats, but with their toy prey instead. Besides zoomies, hunting could also be one of the reasons why cats wag their tail.
Diet, Sleep and Health
Other reasons why cats get the zoomies can be linked to their diet, sleep patterns and overall health. It’s important that cats eat a well-balanced diet with essential nutrients they can convert to energy for physical activity. Also, cats are known for having long naps and then short bursts of activity, which is why zoomies are often a positive sign that your cat is in good health and able to engage. You might even see cat zoomies after pooping if they feel lighter now they’ve relieved themselves.
Benefits of Cat Zoomies
There are many hidden benefits to cat zoomies, meaning your cat will gain from this random activity. We’ve listed the main benefits below:
Physical Exercise
Zoomies can be meaningful to a cat’s physical health, as your cat sprinting and leaping across the room will strengthen their muscles, increase their agility and support their overall physical health.
Mental Stimulation
Cat zoomies are a great way for a cat to stay entertained, as playing with interactive toys will keep your cat sharp and strengthen their cognitive abilities. By staying mentally active, your cat is less likely to experience boredom.
Stress Relief
Rapid movement is also helpful for cats to release any stress, tension or anxiety. By burning off nervous energy, you’ll usually find that your cat is calm and relaxed afterwards, ready to settle down for a nap.
Natural Behaviour
As we know, cats get the zoomies due to their instincts of chasing and hunting, similar to their wild ancestors. It’s beneficial for cats to engage in natural behaviours as it contributes toward their overall well-being.
Bonding Opportunity
Zoomies are a good bonding opportunity for cats and their owners, since it encourages interaction and playtime. Spending quality time with your cat can strengthen your relationship, as well as understanding your cat’s body language.
How to encourage healthy zoomies in cats?
It’s important to encourage healthy zoomies in your cat by providing enough playtime and stimulation to channel your cat’s energy. You can use interactive toys like laser pointers and ping pong balls to keep your cat entertained. Puzzle feeders are also a great way to mentally stimulate your cat.
Since it’s normal for cats to get the zoomies, cat parents need to ensure their feline friends are safe. Make sure your home is cat-proofed by removing potentially dangerous items like loose, fragile or sharp objects that could harm your cat whilst they’re running around. Also, provide appropriate scratch posts to stop your cat from scratching furniture.
Creating a safe and stimulating environment for your cat is important as it helps nurture their overall health and well-being, and ultimately enriches their lives. Make sure to always consider your cat in any significant life changes, for instance if you’re moving house with your cat.
Cat zoomies and commonly asked questions
Do Zoomies Mean a Cat Is Happy?
Zoomies can mean that your cat is happy and content, as they’re able to express their excitement. Other signs of a happy cat include purring, kneading and relaxed body language. However, if zoomies are becoming too frequent, your cat may be stressed or bored, which means they need more stimulation.
Is It Good for Cats to Have Zoomies?
It’s good for cats to have zoomies as it’s beneficial to their physical and mental health. Not only does your cat get plenty of exercise from running around, but it strengthens their muscles and increases their agility too. Zoomies also keep cats mentally stimulated, preventing stress, anxiety and boredom.
How long do zoomies last for a cat?
Cat zoomies tend to last between 1-5 minutes for each period, but each cat is different and some may have longer or more intense zoomies. However, if their zoomies become too regular or severe, it may necessitate a trip to the vet in case there is an underlying medical problem.
Conclusion
Although it might make you concerned, cat zoomies is an entirely normal and healthy part of feline behaviour. It’s important that cat parents provide their feline friends with a safe and stimulating environment for their cats to enjoy their zoomies safely. If you’re curious about other cat behaviours, check out our article on ‘why cats bite you?’ The better you understand your cat, the stronger your bond will be.
