Lick mats are everywhere right now, sold as a calming tool for anxious dogs and cats. But do they actually work, or is it just clever marketing? Here’s the honest answer, the simple science, and how to use one well.
The short version: yes, and here’s why
Licking is a naturally self-soothing behaviour. Long, rhythmic licking is thought to release calming brain chemicals and encourage the ‘rest and digest’ side of the nervous system — the opposite of the fight-or-flight state an anxious pet is stuck in. In plain terms: the repetitive action helps a wound-up pet downshift. A lick mat simply makes that soothing licking last longer by spreading a thin layer of food across a textured surface.
When a lick mat really helps
- Grooming and bath time — stick one to the wall or tub to keep your pet still and settled.
- Vet visits and car journeys — a familiar lick mat is a portable calm-down.
- Fireworks and storms — a distraction that occupies the brain during the scary bits.
- Crate time and alone-time — helps build a positive, relaxed association.
Safe toppings to try
Keep it healthy and pet-safe: a thin smear of plain, xylitol-free peanut butter, plain natural yoghurt, wet food, mashed banana, or a little pumpkin puree. Freeze it to make the challenge last longer. Avoid anything with onion, garlic, chocolate, grapes or the sweetener xylitol, all of which are toxic to pets.
A realistic expectation
A lick mat is a brilliant tool, not a cure. For everyday jitters and specific stressful moments it works beautifully. For deep, ongoing anxiety it’s one helpful part of a bigger plan — alongside routine, enrichment, and, where needed, advice from your vet or a behaviourist.
Used well, a lick mat is one of the cheapest, easiest wins in the calming toolkit. See ours on the lick mat page, or browse the full enrichment range.