Anyone who has ever watched their cat tear through the hallway like a racecar or seen their dog suddenly bolt around the yard in manic circles has witnessed the phenomenon known as “the zoomies.” These sudden bursts of frenetic energy are entertaining, puzzling and sometimes concerning. But according to veterinarians and animal behaviorists, zoomies are not only normal—they’re often a sign of a healthy, happy pet.

What are zoomies, exactly? Technically called Frenetic Random Activity Periods, or FRAPs, zoomies refer to brief periods when animals suddenly engage in high-energy activity with seemingly no trigger. The behavior is most commonly seen in young dogs and cats, although pets of any age can experience them.

The cause is often a buildup of unused energy, whether physical, mental or emotional. Pets who spend much of the day indoors, especially without enough stimulation, are more likely to exhibit these spontaneous energy releases.

“Zoomies are like an emotional release valve,” said Dr. Carla Ruiz, a veterinary behaviorist based in Denver. “It’s your pet’s way of blowing off steam after being calm or contained for a while.”

When and why they happen Zoomies often occur at specific moments: after a bath, following a bowel movement, right before bed or when a pet owner returns home. For dogs, this can mean galloping in circles after a grooming session or sprinting across the yard after being let off leash. Cats, on the other hand, might launch themselves off furniture or dart into different rooms without warning.

In many cases, the trigger is emotional release. Bath time can be stressful for dogs, and zooming afterward may be a form of tension relief. In cats, using the litter box can sometimes stimulate nerves or simply offer a burst of satisfaction and energy.

Even late-night zoomies in cats—those 2 a.m. sprints across the house—may have evolutionary roots. Domestic cats still retain hunting instincts, and their natural prey cycles often coincide with dawn and dusk. Without real prey to chase, a hallway sprint can be the next best thing.

Is it healthy—or a red flag? In general, zoomies are harmless. They tend to last just a few minutes and end with the pet either flopping down or returning to normal activity. However, it’s important for owners to ensure the zoomie environment is safe. Slippery floors, cluttered rooms or unsupervised outdoor areas can increase the risk of injury.

That said, not all high-energy outbursts are zoomies. If a dog or cat is displaying frantic behavior frequently, or in ways that seem compulsive or distressed, it may be a sign of anxiety, boredom or an underlying medical issue.

“If your pet is having FRAPs multiple times a day or seems unable to settle afterward, that’s worth discussing with your vet,” Dr. Ruiz said. “It could be a sign they’re not getting enough enrichment or they’re reacting to stress.”

How to manage the madness The best way to minimize destructive or dangerous zoomies is to ensure your pet is getting enough regular physical and mental stimulation. Dogs benefit from daily walks, interactive toys, and structured playtime. Cats may need climbing structures, wand toys or puzzle feeders to burn off energy in a controlled way.

For pets who tend to zoom in risky spaces—like near staircases or sharp furniture—try to redirect them to safer zones, such as a fenced yard or carpeted playroom. If the zoomies happen like clockwork, you can also try preempting them with a short walk or play session at the usual time.

The bottom line Zoomies are one of the more joyful and mysterious parts of life with pets. They’re often a sign that your dog or cat is feeling good, has energy to spare and trusts their environment enough to let loose. As long as the behavior isn’t excessive or dangerous, it’s perfectly fine to sit back, laugh and enjoy the show.

After all, everyone needs a moment to run wild now and then—even your furry best friend.

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This article was created, in part, using AI tools.