Imagine this - You're lounging on the couch, enjoying a quiet evening, when suddenly, your dog bolts from room to room and starts behaving as an invisible starter pistol fired, and your living room is now a racetrack. If you didn’t have to imagine because this has happened to you already then, you’ve already experienced a dog zoomie.
Of course, it has a proper name (we call it ‘doobie’ but the actual term is marijuana cigarette). A zoomie is actually termed a ‘Frenetic Random Activity Period’ or FRAP. It is when a dog experiences a sudden burst of energy and goes crazy. It can show in the form of spinning like tornados and doing laps around the coffee table like it’s an Olympic track.
You may have even known this (minus the actual term for it) but we are guessing the real reason you are here is to know the reasons why this happens. So, without more suspense, here are the reasons for your dog’s energy to zoom. (2)
(Spoiler alert – It’s not because your dog is going crazy or some demon has possessed your dog)
Before bed – Your dog may just want to let off some steam before resting the night.
After a bath – Either they just want to get dry quickly or they’re feeling super fresh and have got an adrenaline rush from a satisfying bath.
After meals – If you’re a foodie, you’ll understand.
After defecating – It’s easier to run with some load off, isn’t it?
Seeing you after a long day – If your dog has been home alone all day, you’ll see your dog jump the moment they see you. It’s all the unspent energy of the day acting up.
Morning madness – Your dog may be a morning person.
Extrovertness – Dogs that love being around other dogs and people usually experience zooms during a social spree.
Wide open space – Which kid would not get excited by looking at an empty park?
While it may look like a chaotic behavior, zoomies are actually a way to burn off excess adrenaline and release pent-up energy for your dog. It’s like your dog’s version of a quick workout (without paying for the gym membership).
Are Zoomies Good or Bad?
Apart from excitement and happiness, zoomies can also occur in case of stress and anxiety to dogs. Some other situations which can trigger these are – (2)
Training sessions – If your dog is not getting what you’re trying to teach, they may develop nervous energy. In response, they can have an episode of zoomies.
Overstimulation – Sometimes, overplaying or excess mental stimulation can even make your pup go wild for a few seconds.
But does that mean zoomies are bad?
The behavior in itself is not harmful. However, random and frenetic actions can sometimes lead to injuries or accidents depending on the area they are in. For example, if there’s water on the floor or edgy furniture, your dog can end up skidding or getting hurt.
Your dog may even get excited while on a walk and off-leash. They may end up running away. And if you run behind them, they may think that this is some game and they would start running faster.
But these are not major issues and can be taken care of easily. Hence, the conclusion, dog zoomies are not considered bad.
Just one thing - if your dog exhibits zooming behaviors more frequently or at inappropriate times (like when you’re asleep), it may be a sign of your dog getting inadequate mental and physical stimulation. Zooming then becomes their way of telling you ‘Come and play with me!’
If this is not happening, then go ahead and enjoy your dog’s zoomies. If you upload a video of it on Instagram or YouTube, who knows, your dog could be the next viral sensation.
Are Zoomies Good for Cats?
If you’re wondering if Zoomies are limited to our canine buddies or not, they are not. Cats can also Zoom! And they do for the same reasons as our dogs. Cats usually do not need as much physical stimulation as dogs do. They are quite happy posing around on different couches and beds in the house. But occasionally, they do experience a spurt of energy which makes them go all ‘Meowwwwwwwww’. (1)
You’ll see your cat jump on furniture and climb places in a way even Newton would start doubting gravity. There’s nothing wrong with such episodes. Cats in the wild get enough opportunities to spend their energy. Indoor ones, on the other hand, might not be able to express their natural instincts enough.
You’ll see that these episodes occur more during dawn and dusk. This is because cats are crepuscular creatures (google it). We know that it can disturb your sleep but zoomies aren’t really a cause for concern. (1)
Should You Enjoy Cat Zoomies?
If you don’t mind taking some of your sleep time and allocating it to cat time, you should go ahead and enjoy every bit of your cat’s Zoomie. Just one thing – Cats are very smart. The midnight zoomies often result in you giving them treats and toys for them to let you sleep peacefully. This would encourage this behavior more. (1)
To reduce those midnight sparks, you can spread out playtime, mix up the toys, and offer small meals throughout the day. Just make sure your kitty gets enough attention, physical activity and love during the day. (we can’t guarantee no-disturbance sleep even then. But all your cat wants to tell you at night is that they love you).
More About Spot Pet Insurance
Zoomies can sometimes be signs of underlying stress or anxiety in both cats and dogs. You’ll see symptoms like aggression towards other people, eating non-food items, hiding for longer periods, overgrooming, etc. in case of anxiety.
Unfortunately, only love may not be able to cure such behaviors. You may need a vet’s help and even a pet behavior specialist in some cases. And we are here to save up to 90% of all the associated costs for you.
Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more.
We also offer insurance for cats!
With a Spot accident and illness plan, you can take your cat for treatment at any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Spot plans don’t have networks, so whether you’re home or traveling within the U.S, veterinary services your cat receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of eligible services can be covered. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions, ranging from broken bones and bite wounds to behavioral conditions, and cancer. While base plans do not offer coverage for preventive care services, Spot’s Wellness Riders can be added to any base plan for an additional fee and can help cover the eligible costs of wellness exams, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more!
Learn more about dog insurance or get a free quote!
The resident animal enthusiast at Spot. I have a lifetime of pet parent experience. If it has fur, feathers, or scales, I’ve probably shared my home with it. I aim to be a reliable source, blending experience with a dedication to the well-being of pets.
Swaim, E., & Swaim, E. (2023, February 24). Why cats get the zoomies and tips to prevent them from leaping around your house at 2 a.m. Business Insider. https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/pets/cat-zoomies?IR=T
Dog Zoomies: Why do they run around Crazily? | Purina. (n.d.). https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/dogs/behaviour/understanding-dogs/dog-zoomies
What are zoomies? (n.d.). Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/what-are-zoomies
