Lick mats have become one of the most popular enrichment tools in the UK, with search interest growing by 91%. These textured silicone or rubber mats are designed to be spread with soft food β peanut butter, wet food, yoghurt, or mashed banana β giving your dog or cat a long-lasting, calming activity that engages their tongue, brain, and natural foraging instincts.
- The Science: Why Licking Calms Pets
- Best Lick Mats in the UK
- •1. LickiMat Classic Soother
- •2. LickiMat Tuff (Heavy-Duty)
- •3. LickiMat Wobble Bowl
- •4. LickiMat Splash (Suction Cup)
- Best Recipes for Lick Mats
- •For Dogs
- •For Cats
- Lick Mat Tips & Safety
- Frequently Asked Questions
- •Are lick mats safe for puppies?
- •How long does a lick mat keep a dog busy?
- •Can I put a lick mat in the dishwasher?
But there’s real science behind the hype. Veterinary behaviourists have found that repetitive licking releases endorphins, making lick mats one of the most effective non-pharmaceutical tools for managing anxiety in dogs and cats.
The Science: Why Licking Calms Pets
Research from the University of Sydney’s veterinary behaviour department has shown that repetitive licking activates the parasympathetic nervous system β the “rest and digest” response. This lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) and heart rate, creating a measurable calming effect.
This makes lick mats particularly valuable during:
- Fireworks and thunderstorms β Provide a prepared mat at the first signs of distress
- Vet visits β Many vets now recommend bringing a frozen lick mat to distract during examinations
- Grooming sessions β Stick a mat to the bath wall during bath time to keep your dog occupied
- Separation anxiety β Offer a frozen mat as you leave the house to create a positive departure association
- Post-surgery recovery β Mental stimulation when physical exercise is restricted
Best Lick Mats in the UK
1. LickiMat Classic Soother
The original and still the bestseller. The cross-shaped texture pattern is designed to spread food evenly and challenge your pet’s tongue. Made from food-grade TPR rubber that’s non-toxic, dishwasher-safe, and freezer-safe.
Price: Β£6-8 | Best for: Beginners, moderate lickers
2. LickiMat Tuff (Heavy-Duty)
The reinforced version for power chewers. Same textures as the Classic range but with a thicker, more durable base. If your Staffie or Lab has destroyed a standard lick mat, this is the answer.
Price: Β£9-12 | Best for: Strong chewers, large breeds
3. LickiMat Wobble Bowl
A hybrid between a lick mat and a slow feeder bowl. The wobble base adds an extra challenge β your dog has to stabilise the bowl while licking. The 3D texture pattern holds more food than a flat mat.
Price: Β£10-14 | Best for: Fast eaters who need extra challenge
4. LickiMat Splash (Suction Cup)
Designed to stick to smooth surfaces β walls, bathtubs, glass doors, or shower screens. The built-in suction cups hold the mat in place while your dog licks, making it perfect for bath time distraction.
Price: Β£8-12 | Best for: Bath time, grooming sessions
Best Recipes for Lick Mats
For Dogs
- Classic combo: Peanut butter (xylitol-free!) + banana slices + a few pieces of kibble. Freeze for 2 hours.
- Summer cooler: Greek yoghurt (plain, no sweetener) + blueberries + watermelon chunks. Freeze overnight for a hot day treat.
- Meal topper: Wet dog food + a drizzle of fish oil + sweet potato purΓ©e. No freezing needed β use at room temperature.
- Calming blend: Cottage cheese + mashed banana + a squeeze of goat’s kefir (probiotic). Great pre-fireworks.
For Cats
- Tuna spread: Mashed tinned tuna in spring water + a small amount of cat-safe cream cheese
- Wet food layer: Their regular wet food spread thinly β turns a 30-second meal into 10 minutes of enrichment
- Chicken broth: Low-sodium chicken broth frozen onto the mat β a cooling summer treat
Lick Mat Tips & Safety
| Do β | Don’t β |
|---|---|
| Supervise first use | Leave unsupervised with power chewers |
| Freeze for longer-lasting challenge | Use peanut butter containing xylitol |
| Wash after every use (dishwasher-safe) | Use chocolate, grapes, onions, or avocado |
| Start with thin layers for beginners | Use as a replacement for meals (supplement only) |
| Choose the Tuff version for strong chewers | Allow your cat to eat the silicone |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lick mats safe for puppies?
Yes, lick mats are safe for puppies from 8 weeks old. Choose softer foods (mashed banana, plain yoghurt) and supervise to ensure your puppy licks rather than chews the mat. The Classic (non-Tuff) version is actually better for puppies as it’s softer on developing jaws.
How long does a lick mat keep a dog busy?
Unfrozen: 5-10 minutes. Frozen: 20-45 minutes depending on the food and your dog’s enthusiasm. Layering different foods and freezing overnight gives the longest-lasting challenge.
Can I put a lick mat in the dishwasher?
Yes, all LickiMat products are dishwasher-safe (top rack). You can also hand wash with warm soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, as residue could be harmful when your pet licks the mat.
Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Jenkins, MRCVS
Dr. Jenkins is a fully practicing veterinary surgeon in the UK with over 15 years of clinical experience in small animal medicine and canine behaviour. She reviews and verifies our health content to ensure medical accuracy.
