Zoomies, Scrumbling and Midnight Crazies



Has your dog or cat suddenly had a massive release of energy, dashing around the house like crazy? Believe it or not, there’s actually a name for that behavior, and it’s perfectly normal. Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs) — also known as zoomies, scrumbling, and midnight crazies — are random bursts of energy occurring in dogs and cats in which they frantically run, commonly in circles. FRAPs normally last just a few minutes, and it’s not known what causes animals to engage in them. Although little data exists regarding the safety of FRAPs, experts have suggested that dogs should be allowed to freely engage in them, as long as they’re in a safe area and can’t harm themselves or others. FRAPs are also normal and healthy behavior for cats as well, especially in younger cats and kittens. Such quick bursts of energy allow cats to get out any built-up energy, keeping themselves fit and practicing their hunting skills.