If you've ever seen your cat go from zero to 60 in just a few seconds — from catnapping to making a wild dash across the floor — they probably had a case of the cat zoomies. But what are cat zoomies and why does your usually chill cat get these sudden bursts of energy?
Why Cats Get the Zoomies
While it's pretty easy to tell if your cat has a case of the zoomies, the reason behind them can be more mysterious. What are cat zoomies' causes? Here are three of the most common explanations.
1. Sleep Habits
Cats often get the zoomies after a long snooze. Because cats sleep much of the day in order to conserve energy (your feline friend can sleep anywhere from 12 to 16 hours a day), when they're awake, they're really awake. After a long catnap, running from one end of the house to another is a way for your cat to reinvigorate their mind and body.
2. Hunting Instinct
Despite getting all the food they need from their pet parents, cats are innate hunters and have a predatory instinct. Sometimes it may seem as if your cat is chasing nothing, when, more than likely, they're pursuing imaginary prey. To get a sense of your kitty's expert hunting skills, toss a few pieces of kibble down the hallway and see how quickly they bound after it.
3. Bathroom Issues
Many cats seem to take a victory lap after using the litter box. Some cats run like crazy after they've had a bowel movement, particularly if it was uncomfortable. "Such discomfort could be caused by infections or inflammatory processes involving the urinary tract, colon or rectum," explains Dr. Mike Paul for the Pet Health Network. "It could even be caused by constipation issues." If your veterinarian rules out medical reasons for the post-bathroom sprinting, you can conclude that it's probably just your cat's way of celebrating a job well done.
Tasty Tips
When to Contact the Vet
If your zooming cat is otherwise healthy, there's no need to worry.
If you notice excessive zooming, though, keep an eye out for any other unusual behaviors that may signal something's wrong. Accompanying weight loss, changes in litter box usage or unusual vocalization, for example, should prompt you to bring your cat to the vet. Cats are especially likely to exhibit changes in behavior as they age.
Playing Through the Zoomies
Once you've determined that your cat's spontaneous bouts of wildness are nothing to worry about, you can try to plan your play sessions around their zoomies, as International Cat Care recommends: "Playtime ... actually has the most beneficial effects if it is provided relatively frequently in short energetic bursts of activity."
Being an active participant in the zoomies is a great way for you to bond with your kitty, help them release pent-up energy and tire them out for their next snooze. Plus, watching your cat bound aimlessly throughout the house might just be their way of trying to tell you that they want to play. After all, we all know that your cat is really in charge of you, and not the other way around!
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Dinner Pouch Variety Pack Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Entrée Can Variety Pack Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Spinach Casserole Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Liver & Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Low calorie formula with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to help promote an ideal body weight
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Tuna Dinner
Carefully made, gourmet daily nutrition. Tasty chunks with Salmon & Tuna in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Duck & Vegetable Entrée Cat Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Light Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Hill's Science Diet Senior Vitality Adult 7+ Tuna & Vegetables Stew
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Stew
Supports kitten growth, digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Chicken Recipe
Supports the developmental needs of kittens to help start life with healthy growth and a strong immune system.ain, eye & immune system development
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Vegetable & Turkey Medley Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender tuna smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Entrée Cat Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Seared Tuna & Carrot Medley Cat Food
Delicious seared tuna paired with tender carrots in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Related articles
Allergic Dermatitis & Skin Conditions in Cats: Causes & Treatments
Discover some of the signs of feline skin conditions, how to help improve them, and when to consult your veterinarian about your cat's skin health.
Changing Cat Food: How to Do It Safely
Cat's nutritional needs change as they age, so it is important to know when to change their food to keep them healthy and active.
Liver Disease in Your Cat: Causes, Signs & Symptoms
Spotting the warning signs of liver disease in cats is critical. Learn more about the symptoms and what you can do to help prevent liver issues.
The Changing Needs of a Kitten Becoming a Cat
Learn the needs of your aging kitten. It's nutritional and exercise requirements will start to change as it grows from being a kitten into an adult cat.
Dealing with a Cat That's a Picky Eater
Cats are notoriously picky eaters, but there are ways you can encourage her to eat her food. Discover some tips for getting her past her picky habits.
Why Do Cats Meow?
Learn what your cat's meow really means, so you can understand what they are trying to communicate to you.
Cat Jumping? How to Keep Her Paws on the Ground
Learn why cats like to jump and be up high, as well as how to provide her with alternative options for jumping off your countertops and furniture.
Tips & Resources for Feeding Your Cat
Learn how cat's naturally feed and ways you can help meet their nutritional needs without disrupting their feeding behavior.
Choosing a Vet for Your Cat? Consider These Factors
Choosing the right veterinary for your cat is very important to its health. Read through our list of things to consider when looking for a new vet.
Cat Clicker Training for Beginners
Learn the benefits of using a clicker to help train your kitten to have good habits and follow the correct behavior.
Are Cats Good With Kids?
Are cats good with kids? Happily, the answer is yes! Use these tips to find the best cat for your family.
Weight Control Food for Cats: Key Features and Feeding Tips
What is the best food for an overweight cat? Learn all about weight control food for cats, including what's in it and how it works.
Stage 1 Kidney Disease in Cats Often Goes Unnoticed
Learn more about stage 1 kidney disease in cats, such as the cause, symptoms, treatment and how the proper food can help manage her condition.
Benefits of Neutering a Cat
Learn about when the best time to spay or neuter your cat is, and the health benefits that accompany the surgery.
Cat Napping: Why Your Cat Likes to Sleep
Learn about your cat's natural sleep cycle and why it doesn't always match your own, as well as why she likes to nap at certain times of the day.
10 Fun Ways Cats Wake Up Their Owners
Learn why cats waking up owners is a long-standing tradition between pet and pet parent. Sometimes, it's the funniest part of your relationship.
Cat Food Taste & Types: Does My Cat Like Their Food?
Learn about different types of cat foods, why your cat might actually like certain ones over others and questions to ask your vet about cat food taste.
Feline Cognitive Dysfunction & Cat Dementia and How To Help
Learn all about cat brain aging, dementia, signs of senility in senior cats to feline dementia treatment and care.
How to Care for an Injured Cat
Cat injuries require special attention—earn how to recognize a cat injury, details about cat wound care and recommendations for helping cats heal at home.
Cat's Upset & Sensitive Stomach: Treatments & Food Choices
Just like people, cats can experience occasional stomach upset. If your cat exhibits any of the following, especially after eating, she may have a sensitive stomach.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.