Trixie Cooling Mat M, 50×40 cm is a grey cooling mat for dogs and cats from the German brand Trixie. Inside is a 2 cm filling of foam and gel; the outside is PVC and polyester that feels pleasant to the touch. The mat supports thermoregulation and cools on contact with the body. It needs no extra cooling, electricity or water. According to the manufacturer, it cools for several hours and is ready again after a short break. The cooling liquid is 96.8% water, 3% sodium carboxymethylcellulose and 0.2% preservatives. The manufacturer says it has been tested by an independent animal protection and welfare body.
Why a pet needs a cooling mat
Dogs and cats barely sweat and cool down mainly by panting and lying on cool surfaces. In the heat, they look for tiles, the bathroom or shade. A cooling mat gives them a cool spot wherever suits you both: on a bed, in a kennel or in the car. It's especially helpful for older, overweight and flat-faced dogs, which cope with heat less well. More in dogs in hot weather: preventing overheating.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | gel cooling mat |
| Size | M, 50×40 cm |
| Filling | foam and gel, 2 cm |
| Material | PVC, polyester |
| Cooling liquid | water 96.8%, sodium carboxymethylcellulose 3%, preservatives 0.2% |
| Power | none needed: no water or electricity |
| Colour | grey |
| For | dogs and cats |
| Brand | Trixie, Germany |
Pros
- No water or electricity. Works on its own.
- Cools for several hours. According to the manufacturer.
- Recovers quickly. After a short break.
- 2 cm filling. Comfortable to lie on.
- Versatile. On a bed, in a kennel, in the car.
- Easy to clean. Just wipe it.
- Gel ingredients listed. Water and a thickener.
Cons
- Size M suits small pets. Too small for a big dog.
- Not for direct sun. Or above 45 °C.
- Vulnerable to claws and teeth. Watch chewers.
- Condensation can form. It needs drying.
How it works
The gel inside draws heat from your pet's body, so the surface feels cool. Once the gel warms up, the effect fades. When your pet gets up and leaves, the gel releases heat back into the air, and after a short break the mat is ready to cool again. No fridge or socket needed.
Where to use it
Put the mat on the floor, on a bed, in a kennel or on a car seat. In the car it's handy on summer trips, but never leave your pet alone in a closed car — the mat won't prevent overheating. For walks, there's the Trixie Cooling Vest.
Who size M is for
The 50×40 cm size suits cats and small dogs that can lie on it fully, or at least with their belly. A medium or large dog is better off with a bigger mat: the more of the body touches the cool surface, the better.
Getting your pet used to it
Some animals are wary of the unusual surface at first. Place the mat on their usual resting spot, cover it with a thin cloth or put a favourite toy next to it, and reward your pet with a treat when it lies down. In hot weather, pets usually find the cool spot quickly on their own.
Care and storage
To clean the mat, just wipe it with a damp cloth. Don't use or store it in direct sun or above 45 °C: the gel can overheat and turn liquid, losing its cooling effect. Temperature changes can cause moisture to collect on the mat, so the manufacturer advises not folding it or storing it in the original packaging, and drying it with a cloth if needed.
Safety
Don't leave the mat with puppies or dogs that like to chew: remove a punctured mat straight away. If gel gets on the skin or in the mouth, rinse with water, and contact your vet if in doubt. Check the surface regularly for punctures and cracks.
Who it suits
Owners of cats and small dogs that struggle in the heat, especially older, overweight and flat-faced pets. More resting spots are in the dog beds and cat beds sections.
Verdict
The Trixie Cooling Mat M is a 50×40 cm gel cooling mat that works without water or electricity, cools for several hours and recovers quickly, with a 2 cm filling, a water-based gel and easy cleaning. The downsides are that size M only suits small pets, it can't be left in the sun, it's vulnerable to claws and teeth, and it needs drying from condensation.
FAQ
Does the mat need chilling in the fridge?
No, it works without water, electricity or extra cooling.
How long does it stay cool?
Several hours, according to the manufacturer.
What size is it?
M, 50×40 cm.
What's inside?
Foam and gel: water, sodium carboxymethylcellulose and preservatives.
Can I put it in the sun?
No, and don't store it above 45 °C.
Is it suitable for cats?
Yes, it's for dogs and cats.
How do I clean it?
Wipe it with a damp cloth.
