Why Your Cat Sprints at 4 AM: The Science Behind Cat Zoomies

How many times has your heart skipped a beat because your cat suddenly started sprinting, bouncing off the couch and walls? It’s quite a shock, especially when it happens at 4 AM. 

These sudden bursts of energy, known as cat zoomies, may seem random, but there’s real science behind them! In this article, we’ll explore why cats get zoomies, what triggers them, whether you should be concerned, and how to manage them.

What are cat zoomies?

The zoomies, also called the ‘crazies,’ are bursts of energy scientifically known as Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs). 

These playful episodes are common in many animals, like dogs, rabbits and cats!  Zoomies are especially entertaining in cats thanks to their incredible agility, flexibility and how intense their zoomies are.

The science behind cat zoomies

Cats have evolved as skilled hunters. These bursts of energy mimic the actions they’d use to chase prey.

When your cat gets the zoomies, their body gets ready for action. Adrenaline rushes through them, making their heart race and blood flow faster. This is part of their “fight or flight” response, just like their wild ancestors.

As they run around, their brain also releases endorphins. This makes them feel super happy and excited.

These zoomies are natural and part of a cat’s instinctive behavior. When your cat sprints with all their speed and maybe knocks down a vase, it’s a reminder of their wild roots.

Chemicals like dopamine and serotonin also play a role. They make your cat feel happy and excited. This encourages them to move fast and burn off some energy.

What causes cat zoomies?

You might think your cat zooms just for fun or because it has excess energy. But there are more reasons why cats get the zoomies:

Lots of extra energy

Outdoor cats burn off energy by exploring, but indoor cats don’t always get that chance. The smaller the space, the bigger the zoomies can be. 

If your cat isn’t getting enough mental stimulation or exercise, it can lead to sudden bursts of energy.

You could help your cat out by getting a scratching post, an exercise wheel and automated toys. 

Post-litter box crazies

Has your cat gotten the case of the zoomies right after visiting the litter box? This could be because of two reasons: they feel light after a good release or they're having gastro problems. 

Just like you might feel lighter and better after going to the bathroom, so could your cat. This is because the vagus nerve is stimulated. 

But if your cat leaves the litter box clean after going, they might have constipation or diarrhoea.

To stay in shape

The cat zoomies are same as your sprints while exercising. Zoomies help your cat stay in shape by improving muscle tone, flexibility, and boosting cardiovascular health.

Their crepuscular nature

Does your cat wake you up at 4 AM by running around and bumping into walls? Cats are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active at dawn and dusk. 

This is similar to their wild relatives, like lions, who hunt at these times. 

But if your cat zooms at night and keeps you up with loud meows, it might be time to take a look at its feeding routine. An automatic feeder set at this time might be the solution to your sleepless nights.

“Running away” from uncomfortable feelings

Some cats zoom because they’re trying to escape an uncomfortable feeling, like a stomach ache, itchy skin, or even fleas. It could also be anxiety. 

If there’s no clear reason and the zoomies seem to come out of nowhere, it might be time to visit the vet. The biggest sign of discomfort is when zoomies are accompanied by loud meowing and growling.

Boredom

Some cats simply zoom because they're bored. It might not be the case of excess energy, but simply to entertain themselves. 

In this case, you should either pay more attention to your cat or provide it with more stimulating toys. 

Environmental changes

Have you ever noticed your cat getting the zoomies when you have guests over, go somewhere new, or move the furniture around? It’s because cats can get anxious when things change. 

They might be dealing with those feelings by running around. Or, they could just be exploring the new space and marking it with their scent in the quickest way they know.

Spots prey

If your cat suddenly jumps up and starts zooming around, it might have spotted something, like a bird or small rodent. 

Their hunting instincts kick in, and adrenaline rushes through their body. They have to act on it, running, pouncing, or even chirping.

When cat zoomies are concerning

Cat zoomies are natural and show your cat is healthy, especially if they're young. But if your cat has frequent zoomies that interrupt your day or sleep, and are accompanied by meowing or growling while running, it might be time to see a vet. 

Too many zoomies can sometimes mean problems like digestive issues, fleas, or heart concerns.

My cat doesn’t get the zoomies, should I be concerned?

If your cat doesn't get the zoomies, it's usually not a problem unless you notice signs of distress or health issues. It could just mean your cat is really relaxed or not getting enough stimulation. 

If your cat has always been calm, it's probably fine. But if a cat that was once active suddenly stops zooming or shows changes in behavior, schedule a vet visit.

How to manage cat zoomies

Depending on the cause, there are various ways you can manage your cat's zoomies. The most important ways are:

• Getting mentally-stimulating toys like a stimulating feeder
• Finding ways to burn off energy like an exercise wheel or automated toys
• Cleaning the environment of breakable items
• Having carpets in the rooms they they zoom the most to prevent slippery accidents
• Keeping your cat on a strict feeding routine with an automatic feeder

Final thoughts

Cat zoomies are a sign of a healthy and happy cat. But only if they happen from time to time and are not accompanied by concerning behavior. 

The crazies entertain you while your cat gets its daily exercise. As long as your kitty isn’t disrupting your life and it’s zooming for the right reasons, let them. It’s only natural.