Are your cat’s ‘zoomies’ normal? They can be a harmless way to relieve pent-up energy, a sign of illness, or simply short bursts of energy. If you suspect your cat is suffering from some medical condition, you should seek advice from a vet. Hyperactivity has also been linked to problems with thyroid glands. The Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association links hyperactivity to thyroid issues.
Short bursts of energy
Many felines experience a short burst of energy called cat zoomies. If you want to prevent your cat from experiencing zoomies, you need to make sure your cat has plenty of toys to play with and a place to scratch, climb and perch. You should also ensure that your feline friend gets lots of playtime and interaction with humans. Usually, cat zoomies are short and fleeting, and will disappear after about five minutes.
Pent-up energy
The cause of cat zoomies may be as simple as pent-up energy. Cats need a certain amount of physical activity to release their pent-up energy. Taking your pet out for a romp or a walk every day can help relieve this energy. Cats are also natural predators and enjoy chasing imaginary prey. A few minutes of playtime will go a long way.
An attempt to ‘run off’ pain
If your cat is exhibiting random bouts of speed, an attempt to ‘run off’ them is a sign of pain. Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, can cause a cat to become hyperactive and experience the zoomies. If your cat seems particularly hyperactive, it’s worth checking with your veterinarian. A doctor can prescribe medication to help control this condition.
Sign of a medical problem
While many cats exhibit occasional bouts of zooming behavior, a sudden cessation of the behavior may signal a more serious medical problem. Symptoms of a cat with an inflamed colon or urinary tract infection include rapid heartbeat, weight loss, increased appetite, and thirst. Cats with hyperthyroidism are common in senior cats, so owners should monitor their feline companions for any of these symptoms.
Normal behavior
While many people attribute the behavior to under-stimulation, the fact of the matter is that cats need to be stimulated and given plenty of attention. The high energy level in cats is a natural instinct and may be the result of a range of factors. As a result, cats tend to zoom around their homes in the early mornings and late at night. During these times, cats might be in the middle of a zoomies session, racing about the house in search of prey.
Sign of trouble
If your cat suddenly starts zipping around the house, it may be time to seek veterinary care. While it is natural for cats to show increased energy, excessive zoomies are a warning sign of a potential health issue. Hyperthyroidism, an underlying condition that can lead to a cat’s rapid metabolism, is one example of this. But, if your cat doesn’t seem to have any pain, it may be something else.