How the ‘Zoomies’ (FRAPs) Tell You More About Your Pet’s Health Than You Realize

A quiet moment at home can become absolutely berserk when you have pets. Without any obvious provocation, a pet may start to run between certain points like a pinball hitting various lights, bumpers, and ramps. What is happening at this moment? How can you bring your pet back from the place of maniacal possession? With a smile on their face, and a glint in their eyes, it can seem impossible. Before you know what to do, they snap out of this state and return to normal. Welcome to the zoomies.

The Loop of Wild Energy

Most pet owners are generally aware of the zoomies, but what, exactly, are they? Why do they happen, and what do the zoomies mean?

Zoomies are officially known as Frenetic Random Activity Periods, or FRAPs. Characterized by sudden, uncontrollable running between points, FRAPs are a temporary display of joyful exuberant play. Without an established trigger, FRAPs are likely to occur after a bath, bowel movement, after a rest, during play or training, or anytime a pet feels the need to release pent-up energy. 

Good or Bad?

Zoomies are an example of normal behavior. These displays of energy show that a pet is comfortable in their environment, around their people, and can really cut loose. 

Younger pets are more likely to experience the zoomies, but that doesn’t mean an older pet won’t give into these feelings every once in a while. If your pet shows you the zoomies, it means they are happy.

All About Context

FRAPs typically last a few minutes, but they can present some risks to pet safety.  Running around at full speed can lead to injury or breaking household decor. Try to manage your pet’s path away from stairs, certain obstacles, and slippery floors. Carpeted floors or grassy outdoor areas are best for their footing, and without slippery surfaces, like hardwood or tile floors, pets are less likely to pull muscles or slide into immoveable pieces. 

Similarly, be sure that other people around your pet aren’t in the way of their zigging and zagging. Children and older adults can easily be toppled by the full-last energy of a pet with zoomies. 

Trust Your Instincts

While FRAPs are normal, sometimes a pet’s behavior can indicate an underlying problem. Be sure to watch their body language closely and intervene if your pet appears scared, in pain, or otherwise distressed. 

Your Pet’s Health

If you see FRAPs fairly often, it could mean that your pet needs more exercise or mental stimulation. Increase the intensity or duration of their workouts, only stopping when you’re sure they’ve reached their exercise quota. You can also shake up what they do for exercise. Add swimming or hiking to their repertoire. 

Scent work and additional training, including obedience and/or agility, are incredible for mental stimulation and satisfy a pet’s need to work. 

If you have any questions about your pet’s behavior, please give our staff a call at (248) 646-5655.