If you have ever seen your cat become suddenly active and running around, this is called “the zoomies.” But this behavior also has a scientific name: Frenetic Random Activity Periods or FRAP. But why do cats have zoomies? Keep reading to learn more about why your cat behaves in such a frantic manner during these periods!
Why Cats Get Zoomies
All cats have a lot of energy, especially kittens and younger cats. They need to run around to burn off their excess energy because they sleep so much during the day (between 12 to 16 hours). After a long nap, running around the house is the ideal way for cats to wake up their mind and body.
Cats are natural predators. This means they like to chase things, even when they are not hungry. You might see your kitten running around after using the litterbox. They are just celebrating a job well done.
How Can I Stop My Cat From Having Zoomies?
If your cat gets FRAP a lot, one way to stop it is by playing with them more. These episodes of hyperactivity can be prevented by making sure your cat gets enough exercise when they are awake. When your cat is experiencing the zoomies, let them chase around their favorite toy. This will give them a chance to pursue a real target instead of imaginary prey.
When Do Zoomies Happen?
Many people think that cats sleep all day and are awake all night, but this is not true. Cats are actually more active during the early morning and late afternoon, because it is cooler then and their prey is easier to catch. That is why your cat might be playing around or making noise at night while you are trying to sleep!
Even though house cats don’t need to hunt for food, they may still hunt for fun. This can be a problem for owners. Try feeding your cat at different times than it would naturally hunt (dawn and dusk) to stop this from happening as regularly.
When Should I Worry About Zoomies in My Cat?
The good news is that the “zoomies” are usually just a case of too much energy and normal for cats of all ages! However, if your cat starts to move more than usual, it may be because of an underlying health condition such as hyperthyroidism which causes increased energy levels in older cats. If your cat is feeling itchiness or pain from allergies or fleas, they may pace around trying to escape the unpleasant sensation. Keep in mind that while the zoomies are typically nothing to worry about, any significant changes in behavior warrant a trip to the vet.
