The Silicone Food Mat is a waterproof silicone dog food mat with raised edges and a non-slip base, made to sit under your dog's bowls and keep spilled food and water off the floor. It is for UK owners whose dogs are messy eaters or splashy drinkers, and for anyone who wants a neat, easy-to-rinse feeding spot in the kitchen or utility room.
It is a simple product, but the right feeding mat can save a surprising amount of mopping. Here is what it offers, how to choose the right option and how to get the most out of it.
Why use a silicone dog food mat?
Dogs are rarely tidy at mealtimes. Kibble gets nosed over the rim, wet food gets pushed to the edge, and water drips from beards and jowls. On wooden floors, laminate and tiles, that can mean sticky patches, slippery puddles and, over time, marks on the floor itself.
A dedicated feeding mat gives all of that mess somewhere to land. This one is made from food-grade silicone, which is flexible, waterproof and comfortable to have in direct contact with food that might end up being eaten off it.
Key features of the Silicone Food Mat
Raised edges to contain spills
The mat has raised edges, which act like a lip around the outside. Instead of water running straight off onto the floor, it is held on the mat until you can wipe it up or tip it into the sink.
Non-slip base
The non-slip base helps the mat stay put on smooth floors, so it does not skate around when your dog pushes their bowl. That also helps the bowls stay in one place.
Waterproof and easy to rinse
Silicone does not soak up liquid, so the mat is waterproof and easy to rinse clean. You can lift it straight to the sink, give it a rinse and lay it flat again.
Food-grade silicone
The mat is made from food-grade silicone, a popular material for pet feeding accessories because it is flexible and simple to keep clean.
A practical size
At 47 x 29.5cm, the mat is large enough to hold a pair of standard bowls side by side, or a double bowl stand, while still fitting into a typical kitchen corner.
Which dogs and homes a waterproof feeding mat suits
- Messy eaters. Dogs that push food around the bowl, or take mouthfuls and drop them nearby.
- Splashy drinkers. Bearded and long-muzzled breeds such as Schnauzers, Cockapoos, Labradoodles and Spaniels often drip water after drinking.
- Flat-faced breeds. Pugs, French Bulldogs and similar breeds can push bowls around as they eat.
- Puppies. Young dogs still learning table manners tend to be enthusiastic at the bowl.
- Homes with hard floors. Wood, laminate, vinyl and tiles benefit from protection against standing water.
- Raw and wet feeders. A wipeable surface makes it easier to keep the feeding area hygienic.
How to choose the right option
There are three options, all in the same 47 x 29.5cm mat size:
- Grey – £13.99. A soft neutral that suits most kitchens.
- Black – £13.99. Hides marks well and looks smart against light floors.
- Grey with single bowl set – £16.99. A handy option if you want a matching bowl included.
If you already have bowls you like, the plain grey or black mat is all you need. If you are setting up for a new dog, the version with a bowl gives you a ready-made starter set.
Pairing it with bowls
The mat works with almost any bowl, but some pairings work especially well. A raised feeder such as our Raised Non-Slip Double Bowl sits neatly on top and keeps both bowls in one place. If you prefer the weight and look of ceramic, a characterful bowl like the Chow Chow Ceramic Dog Bowl also sits happily on the mat.
Setting up a tidy feeding area
- Measure your spot. Allow a little space around the 47 x 29.5cm mat so your dog can stand comfortably.
- Place it on a clean, dry floor. The non-slip base grips best on a clean surface, so wipe the floor before laying it down.
- Centre the bowls. Keep bowls away from the very edge so spills land on the mat rather than over the lip.
- Keep water at the back. If your dog tends to knock the water bowl, putting it towards the wall can reduce accidents.
- Use it outside too. Because it rolls or folds easily, it can be moved to a patio or taken in the car for holidays.
Cleaning and care tips
- Rinse daily. Lift the mat and rinse it under the tap once a day, or after wet meals.
- Wash weekly. Give it a proper wash in warm, soapy water once a week to remove any greasy film from food.
- Dry before replacing. Let it air-dry or towel it off before putting it back down, so water does not get trapped underneath.
- Clean the floor too. Wipe the floor under the mat occasionally, as moisture and crumbs can still find their way underneath.
- Do not let it become a toy. Some puppies like to chew or drag mats around. Supervise young dogs and remove the mat if it becomes damaged.
Specifications at a glance
- Food-grade silicone
- Non-slip base
- Raised edges to contain spills
- Waterproof and easy to rinse clean
- Size: 47 x 29.5cm
- Colours: grey or black, plus a grey mat with single bowl set
- Price: from £13.99 (with bowl set £16.99)
Frequently asked questions
How big is the Silicone Food Mat?
It measures 47 x 29.5cm, which fits two standard bowls or a double feeder.
Will it stop my dog's bowls sliding?
The mat has a non-slip base that helps it stay in place on smooth floors, which in turn helps keep bowls steadier. Very heavy-handed eaters may still move lightweight bowls.
Is it waterproof?
Yes. It is made from waterproof silicone and has raised edges to hold spills until you wipe them up.
How do I clean it?
Rinse it under the tap or wash it in warm, soapy water, then let it dry before putting it back down.
Does it come with a bowl?
You can choose the plain mat in grey or black, or a grey mat with a single bowl set.
Protect your floors at mealtimes
A good silicone dog food mat is one of those small buys that makes everyday life easier. Shop the Silicone Food Mat at The Canine Co. in grey or black, or with a matching bowl.