As an enrichment activity, a Lick Mat can be a way to supplement your pet's diet with new and interesting treats, or it can simply give them something fun to do (think soduko for kitties).
Slower Eating
A Lick Mat keeps your cat from eating too quickly, which is particularly useful for those who tend to gulp down their food and then vomit. Because it requires a little more effort to extract food from the nooks and crannies, a Lick Mat also helps burn off excess energy for active cats. Plus, slower eating can improve digestion.
Mental Enrichment
The same nooks and crannies that slow down eating offer mental stimulation, as cats must work out how to get their food. The act of licking also helps calm anxious pets and relieve stress.
Whiskers and Teeth
Eating from the flat surface of the Lick Mat is a better option for cats who experience whisker fatigue using a conventional bowl. And the Lick Mat’s textured surface can keep teeth clean by helping remove plaque and tartar.
Please check that the treats and spreads you choose have no ingredients that are harmful to cats, like xylitol (sweetener) or grapes. If you're uncertain, ask your vet. It’s best to start with foods you know your cat likes and introduce new treats in small amounts.
Here’s a simple recipe my friend's cat likes:
- Lactose-free cream cheese
- Skipjack tuna
Mix tuna water with cream cheese to your preferred consistency. Spread over the Lick Mat. Place flakes of tuna across the top—you can also press them into the grooves to increase the challenge for your cat.
Tip: Skipjack tuna is smaller, more abundant and lower in mercury than other species.
