Why Do Cats Get the Zoomies?
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If you've ever witnessed your cat suddenly tearing through the house at top speed, you've experienced the phenomenon known as cat zoomies. But what exactly is this behavior, and why do cats get the zoomies? Here’s everything to know about these bursts of energy.
What Are Cat Zoomies?
Zoomies—when your cat takes off running seemingly out of nowhere—have a scientific name: frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs). While these energetic outbursts might be startling in the moment, they’re perfectly normal feline behavior.
Elizabeth Stelow, DVM, DACVB, chief of the behavior service at UC Davis, explains what makes zoomies different from typical play. “Zoomies appear almost out of control, whereas play is often more measured,” she says. “We've all seen videos of cats rounding the corner on hardwood floors and skidding into the wall. Also, play is interactive—with a person, cat, toy, etc. But zoomies don't appear to have the goal of interacting."
When your cat gets the zoomies, they're likely experiencing what Alison Gerken, DVM, DACVB, veterinary behaviorist at the San Francisco SPCA, describes as a healthy way to release energy.
"Playful zoomies often occur when a cat has been inactive and suddenly feels energized,” Dr. Gerken says. “In these cases, the cat will typically show relaxed body language: ears in a neutral or forward position, tail upright or gently swishing, and possibly making playful sounds like chirps or meows.”
Why Do Cats Get Zoomies?
Cats aren’t the only animals who get the zoomies—we see this behavior in dogs, rabbits, lions, elephants, and more. While Dr. Gerken notes that there’s no definitive research on why it happens, understanding possible motivations can help you support your cat’s well-being.
1. Excess Energy Release
Just like humans need to move after sitting too long, cats need to release pent-up energy—and zoomies provide the perfect outlet. This is especially true for indoor cats who have fewer opportunities to exercise.
But these high-speed sessions aren't just fun—they benefit your cat's health.
"FRAPs may release endorphins, causing a pleasurable or euphoric response,” says Dr. Gerken. “From a physical standpoint, these bursts of activity can strengthen muscles, boost cardiovascular health, and support overall well-being."
2. Natural Instincts
Those midnight marathons around your house? That’s not random timing.
As Dr. Gerken explains, "Since cats are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk, it’s no surprise that many pet parents notice zoomies happening during the early morning or evening hours."
These sprints might also tap into your cat's inner hunter.
"Zoomies may originate from cats' natural predatory instincts, as the bursts of activity with their sudden sprints and sharp turns may represent hunting behaviors,” says Dr. Gerken.
3. Post-Litter Box Relief
If you’ve ever wondered why your cat gets zoomies after scratching in the litter box, it could simply be because they feel good.
"We know that defecating stimulates the vagus nerve, which can lead to a feeling of release/relief,” Dr. Stelow says. “Depending on the cat’s personality, that might lead to excitement and zoomies. We see this in dogs, too.”
4. Environmental Triggers
The next time your cat gets the zoomies, consider what was happening in your house at the time. Cat zoomies might be sparked by everyday events, and paying attention to these patterns can help you better understand your pet's behavior.
Dr. Stelow has seen her cats get the zoomies due to a variety of environmental triggers, including the following:
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Conflict during play with another cat
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Sudden noises
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Playtime that leads to zoomies (like chasing a ball)
5. Age and Energy Levels
"Young cats, especially kittens, tend to have frequent and intense zoomies due to their high energy levels and rapid growth," says Dr. Gerken. “These bursts of activity help practice essential skills like agility, coordination, and motor control.”
Even as cats enter their senior years, they may still experience zoomies, though typically less often due to age-related changes like decreased muscle mass and arthritis. If your senior cat starts zooming around after receiving pain medication, it could be a positive sign that their treatment is working.
However, Dr. Gerken emphasizes the importance of monitoring sudden changes in zoomie behavior, as these shifts might signal underlying health conditions like hyperthyroidism or mobility problems.
What Should You Do When Your Cat Gets Zoomies?
In most cases, you don’t have to do anything if your cat gets the zoomies (except take a funny video or two). You can try tossing your cat a toy if they seem interested, but know this isn’t typically necessary during these episodes.
“If the cat seems to involve people in their zoomies by running over or past them repeatedly, it's probably fine to grab a toy and get into the mix,” says Dr. Stelow. “But I don't see that with cats very often like we do in dogs."
Both veterinarians agree that the key to a happy and healthy cat—whether they engage in zoomies or not—is daily enrichment and exercise.
"Research has shown that play isn't just fun—it's an important indicator of animal welfare,” Dr. Gerken says. “Cats who engage in a variety of games and interact regularly with their guardians tend to have better quality of life and stronger human-animal bonds."
To keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated, Dr. Stelow suggests creating an enriching environment that includes:
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Regular interactive play sessions with pet parents
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Self-play toys (rotate them frequently to maintain interest)
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Food puzzles to make mealtimes more engaging
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Vertical spaces for climbing and perching
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Scratching stations throughout areas where your cat spends time
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Safe outdoor access through a catio or enclosed space
That being said, there are some situations where zoomies might warrant a closer look.
Dr. Gerken notes that anxiety or distress can trigger zoomie-like behavior, though these episodes typically look different from playful ones. Anxious cats often appear uncoordinated or frantic during these moments. Anything from vet visits to unfamiliar people or pets in your house can cause fear-induced zooming.
Signs your cat's zoomies might stem from anxiety include:
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Tense posture
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Dilated pupils
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Flattened ears
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Puffed-up or flicking tail
"If the cat appears to be in pain, vocalizes, or seems to be running from something out of fear, I would suggest that pet parents record the behavior and show it to their vet,” says Dr. Stelow.
Overall, zoomies are a healthy—and often entertaining—phenomenon that comes with being a cat parent. As long as your cat shows normal, playful behavior during these sessions, you can relax and enjoy the show.