FAST AND FURIOUS
Why Our Pets Get the ‘Zoomies’ Woosh! Has your dog or cat randomly bolted through the house again as if they were running from or chasing some imaginary creature? Perhaps they practically bounced off the walls and made a big mess in the process. Commonly called the “zoomies” or “crazies,” most pet owners are familiar with that wild look in their pet’s eyes and the following mad dash.
FRAPs can indicate that your pet needs more exercise and enrichment. Try incorporating more playtime in their day, and increase the number of walks your dog has. The zoomies aren’t harmful, but they might suggest your pet is bored with their current environment or stimulation.
They’re distressed. More frequently in cats than in dogs, zoomies can sometimes be a sign that something isn’t quite right. Some cats may use a FRAP as a desperate way to relieve pain or itchiness. Sometimes, it’s a sign of needing to use the bathroom. And if your cat tends to zoom after litter box use, it could be a sign they’re experiencing intestinal discomfort — or that you need to clean the litter box more often.
But what inspires your cat or dog to engage in this baffling behavior? There could be several reasons.
Clien th ts e SWpr o e r a d ding They’re bored. In both cats and dogs, zoomies can also be a way to relieve pent-up stress or energy. Frequent They’re happy. Officially known as frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs), the zoomies are often associated with happiness in dogs. Canines are particularly likely to zoom around when they’re excited and playful, so the zoomies often appear when an owner returns home. Filled with intense emotion, your dog may not know how to express it and have a FRAP.
Pay attention to your pet’s body language during a zoomy episode. Do they look playful or agitated? Are they happy or aggressive when you try to engage them during a FRAP? These markers will tell you if your pet’s zoomies are cause for concern. If your pet begins zooming frequently or acts distressed during an episode, it’s time for a check-up. Any sudden or unusual change in behavior is an excellent reason to see your veterinarian and confirm if your pet needs treatment for a medical problem. Otherwise, let them follow their instincts.
If your feline regularly coughs up hairballs, these homemade treats may be the perfect thing to help your cat’s digestive tract. CHo Tnatr ri e r o a b l t a C s l a l t Inspired by VitaCost.com
Dan Tietz Codi Inloes-Williams
Dorothy Pew Sara Puharich
INGREDIENTS
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3 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp water
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1 1/4 cups brown rice flour 1/3 cup canned pumpkin
1 tbsp catnip (optional)
1 egg
3 tbsp flaxseed, ground
DIRECTIONS
narrow strips, and place strips onto a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven, then use a spatula to break treats into bite-size pieces. Bake for 10–15 more minutes. Once treats are cool, place them in an airtight container or serve to your feline friends.
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Place parchment paper on a baking sheet. 2. In a medium bowl, mix together all of the ingredients. 3. Once evenly mixed, place the dough in plastic wrap for 5 minutes. 4. On parchment paper, roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut the dough into
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