The Pet Lick Mat For Dogs And Cats is an easy-to-clean silicone lick mat for dogs and cats, designed to keep your pet entertained and engaged while satisfying their natural instinct to lick. At £4.99 it is one of the most affordable ways for UK pet owners to add brain-stimulating enrichment to everyday routines, from puppy training to calm evenings at home.
Enrichment does not have to be expensive or complicated. Sometimes the simplest tools are the ones you reach for most. In this guide we cover what this lick mat does, which pets it suits, how to fill and use it, and how to look after it so it stays fresh.
Why a lick mat for dogs and cats is worth having
Licking is a natural behaviour for both dogs and cats. A lick mat channels it into a focused activity by holding a thin layer of soft food in a textured surface. Your pet has to lick steadily to get every last bit, which turns a few seconds of eating into a longer, more absorbing session.
Owners use lick mats for all sorts of moments:
- Helping a pet settle after an exciting walk or play session
- Keeping a dog occupied while visitors arrive
- Making a portion of wet food last longer
- Offering a positive distraction during nail checks, brushing or bath time
- Giving puppies a calm activity between naps and training
Key features of the Pet Lick Mat
Designed for brain-stimulating play
The mat is designed to keep your dog or cat entertained and engaged, giving them mental as well as physical stimulation through focused licking.
Easy-to-clean silicone
The silicone design makes cleaning straightforward, which matters when you are using it regularly with sticky or wet foods.
Suitable for dogs and cats
One mat works across species, so multi-pet households can use the same type of enrichment for everyone (we suggest giving each pet their own mat).
Excellent value
At £4.99, it is easy to own more than one, so you can have a mat in use, one in the freezer and one drying.
Specifications at a glance
- Type: lick mat for dogs and cats
- Material: silicone
- Cleaning: easy-to-clean design
- Colours: 2 colours, 1 sent at random
- Price: £4.99
Who is this cheap lick mat best for?
- New puppy owners putting together a starter kit of enrichment without overspending.
- Multi-pet households with both dogs and cats.
- Owners trying lick mats for the first time who want to see whether their pet enjoys them.
- Anyone wanting a spare to rotate alongside a favourite mat.
If you discover your dog loves lick mats, you might like a second style with a different shape and texture, such as our Hexagon Silicone Lick Pad, available in four colours.
How to use a lick mat: filling ideas and tips
Pick dog-safe or cat-safe foods
Soft, spreadable foods are ideal: your pet's usual wet food, plain natural yoghurt or a little mashed pumpkin are common choices. Avoid anything containing xylitol (sometimes called birch sugar), chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion or garlic. If your pet has allergies, a sensitive tummy or a prescription diet, ask your vet before adding new foods.
Spread a thin layer
Press food into the texture with the back of a spoon. Thin layers last longer and are less messy.
Try freezing for longer sessions
Freezing a filled mat can make the activity last longer. Keep an eye on your pet the first few times to make sure they are comfortable.
Use it to build positive associations
A lick mat can help make potentially stressful moments, such as brushing or paw handling, more pleasant. Offer it just before and during the task, and finish with praise.
Balance it with active play
Lick mats are calm enrichment. Most dogs also need active play, walks and training. After a lively game with a toy such as our Puppy Treat-Hiding Squeaky Toy, a lick mat is a lovely way to help a puppy wind down.
Supervise and put it away after
Lick mats are for licking, not chewing. Stay nearby and pick the mat up when your pet has finished. If your pet starts chewing the silicone, remove it.
Portion control: count the calories
It is easy to forget that what goes on a lick mat counts towards your pet's daily intake. Use part of their normal meal rather than extras, or reduce their main meal slightly on lick mat days. If you are unsure how much your dog or cat should be eating, your vet can advise based on their age, size and activity level.
Cleaning and care
- Rinse straight after use so food does not dry on.
- Wash with warm, soapy water and use a small brush to get into the grooves.
- Let it dry completely before storing.
- Check for damage such as tears or chewed edges, and replace if needed.
- Keep one mat per pet for hygiene in multi-pet homes.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs and cats both use this lick mat?
Yes, it is designed for both dogs and cats. We recommend each pet has their own mat.
What colour will I receive?
There are 2 colours, and 1 is sent at random.
How much is the Pet Lick Mat?
It costs £4.99.
What is it made from?
It has an easy-to-clean silicone design.
What should I avoid putting on a lick mat?
Avoid xylitol (birch sugar), chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion and garlic. If in doubt, ask your vet.
Small price, big enrichment
If you want a simple, affordable way to keep your dog or cat calmly engaged, this lick mat is an easy place to start. Shop the Pet Lick Mat For Dogs And Cats at The Canine Co.