A lick mat is one of the simplest pet toys there is: a flat mat with a textured surface that you spread something soft across. Your pet licks it off slowly, which turns a spoonful of food into a little activity. This guide covers what to put on one, when to use it, and how to keep it clean.
What is a lick mat?
A lick mat is a mat with grooves, bumps or patterns on its surface. Spread a thin layer of soft food into the texture and your dog or cat works it out with their tongue, a bit at a time.
Our Dual-Texture Lick Mat has two patterns on one mat: oval grooves and a honeycomb pattern. It measures 15 x 15 cm (about 6 x 6 in), which suits cats and small dogs, and has suction cups to help hold it in place.
What to put on a lick mat
Stick to foods your pet already eats and that you know agree with them. Popular options:
- Wet food. The easiest starting point, for dogs and cats alike.
- Plain yogurt. Unsweetened and unflavored.
- Dog-safe peanut butter. For dogs only, and always xylitol-free. Check the label every time.
- Mashed plain pumpkin or banana. For dogs, in small amounts.
- Lickable cat treats. For cats, spread thin.
- Soaked kibble. Mash a little of your pet's regular kibble with water into a paste.
Keep it thin. A light layer pressed into the grooves goes further than a thick scoop on top. Count what you spread as part of your pet's daily food rather than an extra.
If you're unsure whether a food suits your pet, ask your vet before you try it.
4 lick mat ideas to try this week
- The beginner spread. A thin layer of wet food over the whole mat. Easy and familiar.
- Two-zone mat. Use the two textures: something easy on the honeycomb side and something firmer pressed into the grooves.
- Bath-time helper. Stick the mat to the tub wall or floor with the suction cups before a bath, so your pet has something to focus on while you rinse.
- Nail-trim station. Same idea: load the mat, set it down, and trim while they lick.
When to use a lick mat
- During baths and nail trims
- While you cook or eat dinner
- When guests arrive and you'd like your pet occupied for a few minutes
- On rainy days with shorter walks
- As part of a rotation with a snuffle mat and a slow feeder bowl, so each feels fresh
How to clean a lick mat
- Rinse with warm, soapy water after each use.
- Use a soft brush to work food out of the grooves.
- Let it air dry completely before the next use.
Safety tips
- Supervise. A lick mat is for licking, not chewing. If your pet starts chewing it, pick it up and try again later.
- Replace when worn. Retire the mat if it cracks or pieces come loose.
- Mind portions. Spreads add up, so count them in your pet's daily food.
Frequently asked questions
Can cats use a lick mat?
Yes. Our 15 x 15 cm mat is sized for cats and small dogs. Try wet food or a lickable cat treat spread thin.
How long does a lick mat keep a pet busy?
It depends on the pet, the spread and how thin you apply it. A thin layer pressed into the grooves lasts longer than a thick one.
How fast will it arrive?
Every US order ships free and arrives in 7-14 business days, with tracking emailed when it ships.
Pair it up
Many owners use a lick mat alongside a snuffle mat. See the Lick Mat and Snuffle Mat Set, the Lick Mat and Slow Feeder Set, or the 3-piece Dog Enrichment Toy Set. Browse everything in our Dog Enrichment collection. New here? Use code WELCOME10 for 10% off your first order of $25 or more.