A lick mat is one of the simplest enrichment tools there is: spread something tasty across the textured surface, set it down and let your pet lick. Freezing it is the easiest way to make that treat last longer, and it means you can prep a few at once and always have one ready.
Our lick mat ideas post covers the basics. This guide focuses on the make-ahead routine: how to use a lick mat step by step, how to freeze it, a few easy fillings, and how to get it properly clean afterwards.
How to use a lick mat, step by step
- Start with a clean, dry mat. Fillings stick better to a dry surface.
- Spread a thin layer. Use the back of a spoon or a small spatula and press the filling into the grooves. A thin layer goes further than a thick blob.
- Set it down on a flat surface. Our dual-texture lick mat has suction cups, so you can also stick it to a smooth tile wall or the side of a tub during bath time.
- Stay nearby. Let your pet lick, and pick the mat up when they're done.
The mat is 15 x 15 cm (about 6 x 6 in), which is a good size for cats and small dogs.
Why freeze it?
A soft spread disappears quickly. Frozen, the same amount takes much longer to lick off, so many pets stay busy for longer. It's handy for times you'd like your pet occupied, like nail trims, baths, video calls or while you cook dinner.
How to freeze a lick mat
- Spread, then freeze flat. Lay the filled mat on a plate or tray so it freezes evenly. Most fillings set in 2 to 3 hours.
- Prep a few at once. If you have more than one mat, fill them all on a Sunday and stack them, separated by baking paper.
- Cover it. Slide it into a reusable bag or container so it doesn't pick up freezer smells.
- Try half and half. Freeze one half of the mat and add a fresh spread to the other half just before serving, for an easy start and a slower finish.
- Thaw for a minute. Let a frozen mat sit for a minute or two before you put it down, so it isn't rock hard.
Easy fillings to try
Stick to simple foods your pet already eats well, and use small amounts. Treats like these count towards your pet's daily food.
- Wet dog or cat food: the simplest option, and it freezes well.
- Plain, unsweetened yogurt: spread thinly, or mix with a little wet food.
- Plain canned pumpkin: 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugar and spices.
- Mashed banana: a little goes a long way.
- Xylitol-free peanut butter: a thin smear only. Check the label every time.
- Soaked kibble: soak your pet's usual kibble in warm water until soft, mash it and spread it on.
Important: never use any product that contains xylitol (sometimes listed as birch sugar). It's toxic to dogs and is found in some peanut butters, yogurts and sugar-free foods. Check with your vet before giving your pet any food they haven't had before, especially if they have a sensitive stomach or a special diet. For cats, keep to wet cat food or other foods your vet has okayed.
Three simple combos
- Weeknight basic: wet food pressed into the grooves, frozen.
- Two-texture swirl: yogurt on the honeycomb side, pumpkin on the grooved side.
- Kibble crunch: soaked, mashed kibble with a few whole pieces pressed on top.
How to clean a lick mat
Frozen fillings can leave residue deep in the pattern, so clean the mat soon after use:
- Rinse it under warm water to loosen leftover food.
- Scrub with warm soapy water and a small brush (an old toothbrush works well) to get into the grooves and honeycomb.
- Rinse thoroughly so no soap is left behind.
- Let it air dry fully before you refill or freeze it again.
If the mat gets cracked, torn or chewed, replace it.
Safety tips
- Supervise lick mat time, and pick the mat up once the food is gone.
- If your pet starts chewing the mat instead of licking it, take it away.
- Keep portions small and count them as part of the daily food.
Pair it up
Lick mats go nicely with other enrichment. The Lick Mat and Slow Feeder Set pairs the mat with a bone maze bowl for slower mealtimes. The Lick Mat and Snuffle Mat Set adds a fleece snuffle mat for sniff-and-find play.
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