If you’re a cat’s parent you’ve probably observed your cat suffer from “the “zoomies.” At one point, they’re sitting at peace. The next moment, they’re running between the home, like they’re trying to chase something that’s never even there.
Although the zoomies are an everyday occurrence that can be observed in both dogs and cats Sometimes, having to deal with a pet that is agitated, especially at the end of the night — can be a challenge. This article will help you be aware of cat zoomies and what triggers this bizarre behavior.
What is Cat Zoomies?
The name says it all your cat is zooming when they “zoom” and then frantically race around the home. Then, at just the same speed as they began the zooms stop and your cat is back to sleeping on the sofa.
“The zoomies usually appear like a switch has changed its position,” says Pam Johnson-Bennett, CCBC, author and the owner of Cat Behavior Associates.
From the perspective of a cat’s parent, the zoomies could appear like the cat suddenly become crazy without apparent reason. There’s a term that describes this behavior: Frenetic Random Activity Periods or FRAPs. If your cat is experiencing an energy surge that is intense and is running around the house, it is a great method to let their energy out.
Why do Cats Have Zoomies?
There are many different reasons however, these three are the most commonly used.
1. Excess Energy
The primary reason cats suffer from the syndrome is due to a build-up of energy. Cats lie down and rest for the majority of the time to preserve energy for brief, active times. If you don’t exercise or engage in activities, your cat must find an avenue to take the extra energy and end up with an increase in the number of zoomies.
“Cats are predators that ambush, and conserve energy in many short bursts while hunter,” Pam Johnson-Bennett, CCBC states. “For indoor cats that do not exercise enough, They may take part in zoomies to get a needed release of energy.”
Cats of any age can feel a flurry of energy from their pent-up however, this behavior can be more common among kittens and cats that have more energy that can be spent.
Be sure to keep your pet with a variety of activities all day long. This will let them utilize their energy and keep it from falling over the vase and rearranging the rug. In addition, it will allow you to be able to bond with your cat during playtime or other enrichment opportunities and help them be happier and live a healthier life.
2. Acute Pain
Although this is a more uncommon reason that your cat might get zoomies, you must be aware of the signs that be a sign that your cat is suffering from pain so that you can bring their vet promptly to seek relief.
If your cat suffers from the symptoms of fleas and the skin is itchy running around can be a way for them to try to avoid the discomfort. The cat you are aging may be losing sight or hearing, and become scared by certain things more easily and causing a furious running around the home.
What can you tell whether your cat is in discomfort or has extra energy to burn? Look out for other indicators that indicate pain, such as scratching, irritability, or excessive licking. “If cats are in the habit of licking an area in a regular manner and also zooms around, it could be a sign of discomfort or anxiety” Johnson-Bennett explains.
Bennett suggests that even if your cat’s evidently showing signs of pain or discomfort if the snarls are persisting after regular exercise, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.
3. Post-Poop Zoomies
Certain cats seem to love the feeling of winning after visiting the toilet. If your cat is experiencing zoomies after having a pee, be careful to look out for symptoms of constipation that include irritation, vomiting, excrement outside of the toilet, or changes in the stool. If your cat doesn’t show these signs in a clear way, however, it’s always a good idea to speak with your vet, particularly when the post-poop sneezes aren’t typical behavior.
If you are able to eliminate digestive issues make sure that you are sure that your cats’ litter boxes are cleaned regularly. Cats can have the zoomies after a poo to get away from a smell that is unpleasant. A well-maintained litter box will help stop urinary issues and bacteria-related infections in your cat and will keep her in the litter box, not sitting on the rug you love.
Do you need more sleep? Here’s How to Avoid Cat Zoomies at Night
Cat owners everywhere understand the issue well. Cats are known to spend up to 20 hours per day sleeping or resting but it seems that all they do to stay alert and eager to play can be when trying to get some beauty sleep. When your pet is known for waking you up in the middle of the night with an early morning scurry around the home, it’s time to come up with a solution.
“If cats frequently engage in zoomies, that’s probably a sign that the cat requires some exercise,” Johnson Bennett says.
Check to see if your cat gets enough exercise through regular time for play. Bring out the feather as well as the strings (or your cat’s favorite toy) as Johnson-Bennett recommends more than two, 15-minute, interactive games per day.
“It’s crucial to give mental stimulation and enjoyment, therefore don’t simply make your cat tired rather, engage with a strategy that allows your cat to plan and stalk,” Johnson-Bennett says. “Playtime is as much exercise for the mind just as physical.”
To provide your cat with stimulation for the mind, try out some engaging toys which allow cats to have fun and receive a reward for their effort. Set up your cat’s favorite toys before bed will assist in getting that extra energy out, and may bring about a great night’s rest for you.
