If you've ever tried to trim nails with one hand while holding a treat in the other, you already know why lick mats exist. You smear something tasty on the mat, stick it to the floor or the tub, and your pet gets busy. Your hands are free, and their attention is somewhere other than the clippers.
It's not magic, and it won't fix real fear on its own. But for a lot of dogs and cats, it's the difference between a grooming session and a grooming fight.
Why it works
Licking is a naturally soothing behavior for most dogs and cats. A textured mat also slows them down, so a spoonful of peanut butter lasts minutes instead of seconds. That's usually long enough for a paw or two, a quick brush or a bath rinse.
What to put on it
- Peanut butter, as long as it's xylitol-free. Check the label every time. Xylitol is toxic to dogs.
- Plain yogurt with no sweeteners.
- Plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling).
- Wet dog or cat food, which is great for cats.
- Their regular kibble, softened with a little water and pressed into the grooves.
Use a thin layer. You're after "takes a while to lick off," not "extra meal." If your pet has a sensitive stomach or is on a special diet, check with your vet about what's okay.
Freeze it for longer sessions
This is the trick most people miss. Spread the mat the night before and put it in the freezer. A frozen mat lasts a lot longer, which is exactly what you want for a full nail trim or a proper bath.
Where to stick it
- Nail trims: on the floor in front of them, or on a low cabinet door if they're sitting on your lap.
- Baths: on the bathtub wall at nose height. Wet tile helps the suction cups hold.
- Brushing: on the floor, so you can work along their back while they lick.
Mistakes to avoid
- Only bringing it out for grooming. Use it at random times too, or it becomes a warning sign that the clippers are coming.
- Leaving your pet alone with it. Some determined chewers will try to eat the mat. Supervise, and put it away when they're done.
- Skipping the cleanup. Wash it after every use. Silicone mats can go in the dishwasher.
Pair it with quiet tools
A lick mat buys you time, and quiet tools make the most of it. The Quiet 4-in-1 Grooming Kit runs at about 45 dB, so there's less to distract your pet from their snack.
Our Calm Lick Mat has four textured zones and suction cups that hold on tile and tub walls. Get it with the grooming kit and the mat is 25% off at checkout.