Licking is naturally soothing for dogs and many cats. A lick mat turns a small amount of food into a slow, calming activity that can keep your pet happily busy for several minutes.
When lick mats help
- Slowing down fast eaters: spreading wet food over a mat turns gulping into licking.
- Bath time and grooming: stick a mat to the tub or floor to keep your pet occupied during baths, brushing or nail trims.
- Quiet time: a filled mat can help a pet settle when you leave the room or have visitors.
Safe things to spread
- Your pet's regular wet food
- Plain unsweetened yogurt (small amounts)
- Plain canned pumpkin – not pie filling
- Peanut butter only if it contains no xylitol (dogs only, small amounts)
- Mashed banana or blended pet-safe vegetables
Never use
- Anything containing xylitol (birch sugar), which is toxic to dogs
- Chocolate, grapes or raisins
- Onion, garlic or foods seasoned with them
- Very salty or fatty leftovers
Remember that spreads count toward your pet's daily calories – keep portions small.
Make it last longer
Spread the food into the grooves and freeze the mat for an hour or two. Frozen mats take longer to finish and feel cool on hot days.
Cleaning and supervision
Wash the mat with warm, soapy water after every use, or on the top rack of the dishwasher if the instructions allow. Supervise your pet, especially at first, and take the mat away if they start chewing pieces off.
Shop our letters & numbers lick mats or the round lick mat 2-pack.
Ask your veterinarian before adding new foods if your pet has allergies or a medical condition.