Lick Mats for Dogs and Cats: What They Are, How They Work, and Why Vets Recommend Them

Lick mats calm dogs and cats by encouraging repetitive licking, which releases endorphins and reduces stress — making them useful for bath time, grooming, vet visits, and separation anxiety, as well as slowing down fast eaters. Spread with a thin layer of peanut butter, wet food, yoghurt, or pumpkin puree, a lick mat turns a source of anxiety into a positive, focused activity.

How licking promotes calm

Repetitive licking triggers saliva production and activates the parasympathetic nervous system — the body's "rest and digest" mode. The textured surface of a lick mat extends licking time from seconds to several minutes, giving the calming effect time to kick in.

When to use a lick mat

• Bath time and grooming: stick a bath lick pad to the tub or shower wall with suction cups to keep your dog still and calm during washing.
• Separation anxiety: freeze a lick mat the night before and leave it with your dog when you go out — a frozen mat lasts 20–30 minutes.
• Fast eaters: spread their meal on a grass-design silicone lick mat to extend mealtime and aid digestion.
• Thunderstorms and fireworks: a lick mat with a high-value spread redirects anxious energy into a calm, focused activity.

Types of lick mats

For general calm and feeding, a suction-cup lick mat stays put on any smooth surface. For freezing, a thicker silicone calming pad holds more filling and lasts longer. For cats and small dogs, a gentle-texture silicone mat is less intense than deep-ridged dog mats.

Safe fillings to use

• Plain peanut butter (no xylitol — always check the label)
• Unsweetened plain yoghurt or kefir
• Pumpkin puree (great for digestion)
• Mashed banana or sweet potato
• Wet cat or dog food

Frequently asked questions

How long should a dog lick a lick mat?
5–20 minutes is typical. Frozen mats last longer. Don't leave any mat unsupervised for extended periods.

Are lick mats dishwasher safe?
Most silicone lick mats are top-rack dishwasher safe. Check the product instructions.

Can puppies use lick mats?
Yes — they're great for puppy socialisation and for making grooming and vet visits positive early on.

Browse all lick mats and slow feeders for dogs and cats.