Cat Zoomies: What it is and Why They Do It in Peoria, IL

As a cat parent, have you ever seen your cat have a peaceful catnap then seconds later it starts speeding and running like it’s chasing something? You must be familiar with the “zoomies”. It usually happens in the night, which can be quite frustrating. In this article, you will learn about cat zoomies, what causes it and ways to prevent it from happening.

What Are Cat Zoomies?

Cat zoomies are when our pet experiences an instantaneous burst of intense energy. In some instances, they will frantically run around the house and destroy curtains; then later on snooze on their bed and act like it never happened. Although pets have experienced this behavior differently, the sudden energy is all the same. Certain pets may sprint back and forth, while others can spin in circles.

Why Do Cats Get Zoomies?

There are many different reasons for this behavior in cats. Read more to know understand why your cat gets the zoomies.

Sleeping Habits

Cats sleep 12 to 16 hours a day-which is quite long. One reason cats get zoomies is the excessive catnap. Cats sleep for most of the day to save up their energy, which would be actively used in a short period. After a long catnap, running from one end of the house to another is the best way for them to release all that energy in their body. This especially happens if your cat doesn’t go out often or has any cat exercise. It’s common for indoor cats and kittens.

Unexpected Pain

Your cat might have fleas or skin irritation, which can cause pain and give them a reason to frantically run trying to get away from the feeling. If you find it difficult to know when your cat is in pain or has a burn on their skin, watch out for excess licking, irritation, scratching. When a cat constantly licks a particular area in addition to the zooming, it may indicate that they are in pain. While this may not be present to all cats, it’s important to take notices of these cases if it ever occurs, so you could take your furry friend to the vet near Peoria, IL to get some relief.

Medical Reasons

A medical condition can cause cat zoomies. Perhaps the most serious cause of this is Feline Hyperthyroidism ;which is a common endocrine disorder within middle-age and older cats. If your cat is in this age range and is always up late, acting odd and losing weight, you should get them checked by your veterinarian.

Cognitive dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) should be considered when your cat bolts or act abnormally. Slow changes of eyesight, hearing and even smelling can contribute to this behavior. Whenever you notice your pet wake up in shock and start bolting about, always seek veterinary advice.

Hunting Instincts

Despite the unlimited can food bought by their parents, cat have their inner hunting skills and predatory instinct. This can apply to both domestic and wild cats. Sometimes your cat might just be chasing an imaginary prey, which looks like they are chasing nothing. To help your cat with their hunting skills, buy them a toy, throw it across the hall, and watch their reaction.

Behavior Issue

Behavior issues can cause zooming. Stress and anxiety can increase senses to the point that your pet can react to the slightest stimulus. Less activity and depression can produce imbalanced sleep and frustration with the cat. It’s important to see the vet if you notice something odd about your kitten.

Bathroom Issues

Many cats go for a quick run after a bathroom break in the litter. This particularly happens if the process was uncomfortable. If you notice this, be sure to pay attention to signs of constipation, vomiting, discomfort or stooling outside litter box. Such discomfort could be caused by infections involving the rectum, colon, or urinary tract.

How Long Do Cat Zoomies Last?

There hasn’t been an estimate record when zooming stops, but typically cats cannot sustain zoomies less than a minute. The older the cat gets, the shorter or less frequent the frenetic random activity period becomes.

When Does My Cat Get the Zoomies?

This behavior can happen anytime to your cat. They can get them in the morning, after their long nap and nutritious breakfast. Pets are always ready to give their mind and body relief from that stored energy. Evenings or nights are also particular times zoomies can occur due to a lack of exercise and or eagerness to play with owners when they return home.

How to Reduce This Behavior

As entertaining as it can be, zoomies can cause serious damages to your pet and destruction to your household. Here are some tips to help reduce their zoomies:

Playtime

A great way to encourage your cat to exercise daily is to have a long play time with them. Try sectioning it like 5 minutes throughout the day, so they can rest and play. You can add new games and toys to make it more exciting. It releases happy hormones, making them active.

Cats Diet

Another way to reduce this behavior in cats is by feeding your cat in small portions. Three or four small meals are typically enough for them. To get them physically and mentally active, buy a puzzle feeder. This way, it can get your cat to think while they are eating.

Create a Friendly Environment

To keep your cat calm and comfortable, provide your pet a safe place to explore. This can help reduce zoomies and ease their mind.

Contact Whitney Veterinary Hospital if You Have Questions About Cat Zoomies

There are many different reasons why your cat gets the zoomies and it’s important to pay attention to any behavior changes. Overall, this behavior is very common to pets and can be reduced by regular exercise and good diet.

If you have any additional questions about this behavior in cats, contact Whitney Veterinary Hospital in Peoria, IL by calling (309) 685-4707. Our team of veterinarians work hard to give your pet the best care and are always happy to help!