Cat lick mat: how to use one and what to put on it
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Cats approach lick mats differently than dogs. Crumbled freeze-dried treats on a mat offer mental engagement during grooming or recovery from handling, since cats are more cautious and prefer brief sessions in quiet spaces.
Cat mats need shallow texture
Cats' tongues are smaller and more delicate than dogs'. Pink Papyrus makes mats specifically for dogs and cats with a multi-level surface that works for both. The Pink, Yellow, Green, Orange, and Blue mats all have gentle ridges that hold a spread without forcing the cat to work too hard.
Suction cups for bath time and grooming
Stick the mat to the tub wall during a bath, or to a low tile surface during grooming. Cats feel more in control when the mat stays still. Suction cups on the back hold it in place. Modern Dog mats, like the It's a Birthday Pawty and Disco Cowgirl, have suction cups and come with a brush and spatula.
Spread thin for cats
A cat will work on a lick mat for 3 to 8 minutes, then walk away. Spread thinly so the mat doesn't feel like an overwhelming task. A teaspoon of spread is enough.
Timing matters
Offer a mat during crate rest, recovery time, or a grooming session. Don't force a cat onto a mat; let them approach it at their own pace. Some cats ignore them entirely, and that's fine.
Freeze small amounts
Cats eat slowly, so frozen spreads last longer. Freeze just a thin layer so it thaws quickly as your cat licks. A hard mat discourages engagement. Many cat owners find that unfrozen mats are easier for cats to work with initially, so don't rush to freezing.
Best times to offer a mat
Time matters for cats. Offer a mat when your cat is settled and not hungry, not during meal prep or when they're hyperactive. Recovery time after grooming or handling works well. Let your cat set the pace for engagement with the mat.
In the Toys aisle
Pink Dog and Cat Lick Mat, pink, multi-level surface, $15.00. Yellow Dog and Cat Lick Mat, yellow, multi-level surface, $15.00. Green Dog and Cat Lick Mat, lime green, multi-level surface, $15.00. Orange Dog and Cat Lick Mat, orange, multi-level surface, $15.00. Blue Dog and Cat Lick Mat, blue, multi-level surface, $15.00.
How it ships
Sold through Shopify Collective and shipped to you directly by The Modern Dog Company in Nashville, Tennessee, usually within five business days, with its own tracking. Not made or shipped by Sniff and Shift. Sold through Shopify Collective and shipped to you directly by Pink Papyrus Co., with its own tracking. Not made or shipped by Sniff and Shift. Our freeze-dried treats are made in Malvern, Pennsylvania and ship separately from us.
Questions
What spreads do cats like?
Plain yogurt is a starting point, but most cats prefer something more flavorful. Our freeze-dried cat treats crumbled onto the mat work well. Thin layers of peanut butter appeal to some cats but not all.
Do cats use lick mats as often as dogs?
No. Many cats ignore lick mats entirely. Those who engage usually work on one for 5 to 10 minutes, then leave. It's an occasional enrichment tool for cats, not a daily activity.
My cat knocked the mat off the tub wall. Should I try again?
Some cats reject lick mats as too unfamiliar. Try once more with a thinner spread, then move on. Not all cats find mats rewarding.
Can I use the same mat for a dog and cat?
Yes, if both are the same size. Wash it between uses. Keep a separate mat if you want to avoid sharing.
How do I clean a cat mat?
Rinse under running water first, then wash on the top rack of the dishwasher. Pink Papyrus and Modern Dog mats are durable and handle frequent washing well.
Crumble our freeze-dried cat treats onto the mat for engagement. Find cat enrichment and treats on our Explore page.
