A LickiMat is one of the simplest, most effective enrichment tools you can give your dog or cat. Whether you're trying to calm an anxious pet, slow down a fast eater, or just keep them occupied while you work from home, a LickiMat delivers — every time.

Here's everything you need to know about how to use one.

What is a LickiMat?

A LickiMat is a textured rubber mat designed to hold soft foods. Your pet licks the food from the surface, which slows down eating, promotes calm, and provides genuine mental stimulation. The repetitive licking action triggers the release of serotonin — the feel-good hormone — making LickiMats particularly effective for anxious or stressed pets.

LickiMats come in a range of textures and designs, each suited to different foods and different pets. Some are designed for dogs, some for cats, and some work beautifully for both.

Why Licking is Good for Your Pet

The science behind LickiMats is straightforward: licking is a naturally calming behaviour for dogs and cats. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system — the "rest and digest" response — which reduces stress hormones and promotes relaxation.

Regular licking activity has been shown to:

• Reduce anxiety and stress behaviours
• Slow down eating and improve digestion
• Provide mental stimulation that tires pets out
• Support dental hygiene by promoting saliva production
• Calm pets during stressful events like thunderstorms, fireworks, or vet visits

Step 1: Choose the Right LickiMat

Different LickiMat designs suit different uses:

• LickiMat Classic — the original design, great for spreading soft foods like peanut butter, yoghurt, or wet food
• LickiMat Buddy — a more textured surface, ideal for thicker spreads and longer licking sessions
• LickiMat Slomo — designed specifically for cats, with a finer texture perfect for wet food and pâté
• LickiMat Splash — suction cup base, great for bath time or shower use to keep anxious dogs calm during grooming
• LickiMat Tuff — a more durable version for heavy chewers

Browse our full LickiMat range at StevieLicksx® →

Step 2: Choose Your Filling

The best LickiMat fillings are soft, spreadable, and safe for your pet. Here are our favourite options:

For dogs:

• Peanut butter — a classic. Make sure it's xylitol-free (xylitol is toxic to dogs)
• Plain Greek yoghurt — great for gut health, high in protein
• Wet dog food or pâté — spread thinly across the surface
• Mashed banana — naturally sweet and easy to spread
• Pumpkin purée — excellent for digestion, low calorie
• Bone broth — freeze it in the LickiMat for a longer-lasting treat
• Cream cheese — use sparingly as a high-value treat

For cats:

• Wet cat food or pâté — the easiest and most popular option
• Tuna or salmon in spring water — a high-value treat for most cats
• Plain cooked chicken — shredded finely and pressed into the mat
• Bone broth (cat-safe) — freeze for a longer session

Step 3: Prepare the LickiMat

Spread your chosen filling across the surface of the mat, pressing it into the texture so your pet has to work for it. The more you press it in, the longer the licking session will last.

Pro tip: Freeze the filled LickiMat for 30–60 minutes before giving it to your pet. A frozen LickiMat lasts significantly longer — up to 20–30 minutes for an enthusiastic licker — and is especially useful on hot NZ summer days.

Step 4: Introduce It to Your Pet

Most dogs take to a LickiMat immediately — especially if you use a high-value filling like peanut butter or wet food. For cats, it may take a little more patience:

• Start with a filling your cat already loves
• Place the mat near their usual feeding spot
• Let them investigate at their own pace — don't force it
• Try warming wet food slightly to enhance the smell

Most cats come around within a few sessions once they realise what's on offer.

Step 5: Supervise and Enjoy

Always supervise your pet with a LickiMat, especially the first few times. While LickiMats are designed to be licked rather than chewed, some dogs (particularly heavy chewers) may try to chew the mat. If this happens, opt for the LickiMat Tuff version.

Cleaning Your LickiMat

LickiMats are dishwasher safe — simply pop them on the top rack after use. For a quick clean, rinse under warm water and use a soft brush to remove any food from the texture. Regular cleaning prevents bacteria build-up and keeps the mat hygienic.

When to Use a LickiMat

LickiMats are incredibly versatile. Here are some of the best times to use one:

• During thunderstorms or fireworks — the licking action calms anxiety
• At bath time — stick a LickiMat Splash to the wall to keep your dog occupied
• During vet visits — bring a filled LickiMat to keep your pet calm on the table
• When you leave the house — a frozen LickiMat gives your pet something to focus on
• At mealtimes — use instead of a bowl to slow down fast eaters
• During grooming — keeps fidgety pets still while you brush or clip nails

Shop LickiMats at StevieLicksx® — NZ's premium pet boutique, delivering nationwide. →