End the 3 a.m. Zoomies with a Simple Evening Play Routine
End the 3 a.m. Zoomies with a Simple Evening Play Routine
If your kitten treats your sleeping body like a parkour course at 3 a.m., you’re not alone. The fix? A simple, structured evening play routine that helps burn energy and reset their sleep cycle.
Why Zoomies Happen
Kittens naturally have a dawn/dusk activity cycle. But indoor life can disrupt their rhythm, causing a burst of wild energy in the middle of the night.
The 20-Minute Evening Routine
1. High-Energy Play (10 minutes)
Use toys that mimic prey:
- Wand toys
- Laser pointers
- Fast-moving plush toys
Move the toy like something alive—darting, pausing, hiding.
2. Medium-Energy Play (5 minutes)
Switch to:
- Rolling balls
- Puzzle toys
- Solo chasers
Let energy taper down gently.
3. The Wind-Down (5 minutes)
- Offer a small meal.
- Give a gentle brushing or cuddles.
- Turn lights low to signal “bedtime mode.”
Why It Works
This routine mimics a natural hunt → catch → eat → sleep cycle that tells your kitten’s body: It’s time to rest.
Your future self at 3 a.m. will thank you.
