Dog and cat zoomies—technically known as Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs)—are bursts of sudden, high-energy running and playful chaos that animals experience, often for seemingly no reason. If you’ve ever seen a dog or cat sprint around the house, darting around furniture, skidding across floors, or leaping onto couches at full speed, you’ve witnessed the zoomies firsthand.
Why Do Pets Get the Zoomies?
Both dogs and cats experience zoomies as a natural way to release excess energy. Here’s why they might happen:
- Dogs often get zoomies after a bath, during playtime, or when they’re feeling extra joyful. Puppies and young dogs especially are prone to zooming as they have boundless energy to burn.
- Cats usually get zoomies after a long nap, during late-night hours when their hunting instincts kick in, or just as a sudden burst of excitement.
Are Zoomies Normal?
Absolutely! Zoomies are a sign of a happy and healthy pet. As long as your furry friend has a safe space to run and isn’t knocking over lamps or crashing into walls, it’s best to let them enjoy the moment. If zoomies happen excessively or your pet seems stressed rather than playful, it might be worth looking into their environment to see if they need more stimulation or exercise.
Do your pets get zoomies often? I imagine the pictures and videos you create would be perfect for capturing their wild moments!