What are Dog Zoomies?

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)  

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⁾

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. 

Dog Insurance can help provide financial assistance for eligible veterinary care in case of unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries. Our plans can help pet parents manage the eligible costs of covered veterinary care and help ensure that their pets can receive the best treatment possible. Here are some ways that Spot pet insurance plans can help:

To learn more about Spot Plans or to get a free quote, click here.