Licki Mats, What do they really do?

Licki Mats Overview

Licki Mats are innovative feeding tools designed for dogs and cats to provide mental stimulation, reduce anxiety, and promote healthy eating habits. They are typically made from non-toxic, food-grade silicone or rubber and come in a variety of designs and textures. These mats are designed to be spread with soft foods, encouraging pets to lick the mat to get their treat. The repetitive licking action can have a calming effect on pets, making Licki Mats a useful tool for a variety of situations.

Benefits of Licki Mats

1. Mental Stimulation: The effort required to lick the food out of the grooves and patterns provides mental engagement, which can help alleviate boredom and reduce destructive behaviors.

2. Anxiety Reduction: The act of licking releases endorphins in pets, which can help calm them down and reduce anxiety, particularly during stressful times such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or vet visits.

3. Slow Feeding: Licki Mats can slow down the eating process, which is beneficial for pets that tend to eat too quickly. This can help prevent digestive issues such as bloating and vomiting.

4. Dental Health: The licking action helps clean the tongue and produce saliva, which aids in digestion and can improve oral hygiene by reducing bacteria and plaque.

5. Versatility: Licki Mats can be used with a variety of soft foods, including wet dog food, peanut butter (xylitol-free), yogurt, pureed fruits, and even medications or supplements to make them more palatable.

Types of Licki Mats

1. Licki Mat Original:

   • Design: Features a flat surface with intricate patterns to spread food.
   • Use: Ideal for spreading soft treats or wet food. Suitable for both dogs and cats.

2. Licki Mat Buddy:

   • Design: Has a cross maze pattern that helps trap food and extend licking time.
   • Use: Perfect for use with treats like peanut butter, yogurt, or soft food.

3. Licki Mat Soother:

   • Design: Features a more intricate design with smaller, raised bumps.
   • Use: Great for calming pets with repetitive licking. Suitable for spreads and pureed food.

4. Licki Mat Playdate:

   • Design: Has a square design with larger pockets to hold chunky treats.
   • Use: Can be used with chunky wet food or spreadable treats.

5. Licki Mat Wobble:

   • Design: A bowl-shaped mat that wobbles as the pet licks.
   • Use: Adds an extra layer of difficulty and engagement. Suitable for all types of spreadable foods.

Usage Tips

1. Choosing Food: Use pet-safe, spreadable foods like plain yogurt, canned pumpkin, wet dog/cat food, or xylitol-free peanut butter. Avoid foods that are toxic to pets, such as chocolate, avocados, and certain nuts.

2. Introducing the Mat: Start by spreading a thin layer of a high-value treat on the mat to attract your pet’s interest. Gradually increase the complexity of the food and patterns as they get used to the mat.

3. Cleaning: Most Licki Mats are dishwasher safe, making them easy to clean. Check the product instructions for specific cleaning guidelines.

4. Supervision: Especially when first introduced, supervise your pet to ensure they are licking the mat and not trying to chew it. Over time, pets usually learn to associate the mat with licking rather than chewing.

5. Freezing: For an added challenge and a longer-lasting treat, spread the food on the mat and freeze it before giving it to your pet. This can be particularly useful on hot days.

6. Multiple Uses: Licki Mats can be used for more than just feeding. They can help distract pets during grooming, bathing, or nail trimming sessions.

Conclusion

Licki Mats are a versatile and beneficial tool for pet owners looking to provide mental stimulation, reduce anxiety, and promote healthy eating habits in their pets. By selecting the right type of Licki Mat and using it appropriately, you can enhance your pet’s well-being and make mealtime more enjoyable.