Lick mats for cats: sizes, textures and what cats go for
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Cats approach lick mats differently than dogs, and our freeze-dried treats work beautifully on them. A cat works slowly, prefers smaller portions, and loses interest quickly if the texture demands too much effort. The right lick mat for a cat is shallow, with gentle grooves that don't require hard licking.
Why cats like lick mats
A lick mat gives a cat something to do during stressful moments: a groomer visit, a new pet in the home, or just a slow afternoon. The repetitive licking offers a focused activity for cats, much like it is for dogs, though cats are less enthusiastic about the activity overall. Many cat owners find that a lick mat works better as an occasional treat than as part of a daily routine.
Mat size and shape for cats
Pink Papyrus makes lick mats designed for both cats and small dogs in several colors. The Pink Dog & Cat Lick Mat, Yellow Dog & Cat Lick Mat, and Green Dog & Cat Lick Mat are all silicone, smaller than a full-sized dog mat, and shaped to fit a cat's mouth and paws. All are 12.99 dollars. The Modern Dog Company's It's a Birthday Pawty Lick Mat and Disco Cowgirl Lick Mat also work for cats, though they're slightly larger, at 17.00 dollars each.
What to put on a cat lick mat
Plain yogurt is a good starter for most cats. For cats who like fish, crumbles of our freeze-dried sardines or sardine heads pressed into the grooves are ideal. A very thin layer stops waste; cats get bored quickly with overloaded mats. Mix a few crumbles with a tiny bit of water to create a paste that stays in the grooves without running off.
Timing and frequency
Offer the mat once a week, not daily. A 10 to 15 minute session is enough for most cats. Unlike dogs, cats don't typically ask for the mat, so this is a handler-initiated activity. Use it strategically during times when your cat might benefit from the distraction or enrichment.
Freezing a cat lick mat
Frozen mats work for cats too, though most cats prefer them unfrozen. If you freeze the mat, do so for 20 to 30 minutes, not the full hour. Keep an eye on your cat, as frozen mats can be uncomfortable for a cat's mouth and tongue.
In the Toys aisle
The Pink, Yellow, and Green Dog & Cat Lick Mats from Pink Papyrus, all 12.99 dollars, are sized for cats and small dogs alike. Each is silicone and dishwasher friendly. The It's a Birthday Pawty Lick Mat from The Modern Dog Company, 17.00 dollars, and Disco Cowgirl Lick Mat, 17.00 dollars, are slightly larger but many cats enjoy them.
How it ships
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. 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. Our freeze-dried treats are made in Malvern, Pennsylvania and ship separately from us. Find our cat treats to load your mat.
Questions
Will my cat even use a lick mat?
Some will, some won't. Cats who enjoy licking at surfaces are more likely to engage. Start with a very light load and see if your cat shows interest. If not, try again in a few weeks.
Can I use the same mat for my dog and cat?
Yes, as long as the mat is clean between uses. Cats are generally pickier about shared objects, so have a designated cat mat if both pets use them regularly.
What if my cat just walks away from the mat?
That's normal. Cats are less food-motivated than dogs and may simply prefer other enrichment. Try a different texture, a lighter load, or a different time of day. Some cats never warm to lick mats.
Can I leave a lick mat in the freezer?
Yes, stored unloaded. Keep it in a small container or ziplock bag in the freezer and load it fresh when you want to use it.
How do I clean a cat lick mat?
Rinse immediately after use. Hand wash or the dishwasher, top rack. These mats are silicone and very durable, so they clean easily and dry quickly.
Find more ways to engage your cat at explore.
