Trixie Licky Snack mat, 18 cm is a pink silicone lick mat from the German brand Trixie. You spread wet food, pâté or treats over its textured surface, and your pet gradually licks it off. It's made of non-toxic food-grade silicone, has suction cups that hold it firmly on smooth surfaces, and washes easily by hand or in the dishwasher. It's listed under dog bowls in our catalogue but suits cats too.
Why use a lick mat
Licking is a natural activity for dogs and cats that helps them relax. A lick mat turns a treat that would vanish in seconds into a calm activity lasting several minutes. It's used to distract pets during baths, brushing and nail trims, to keep them busy in bad weather or while you're getting ready to leave. More ideas in how to keep a dog busy indoors in bad weather.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | slow-feeding mat |
| Size | 18 cm |
| Material | food-grade silicone |
| Attachment | suction cups |
| Washing | by hand or in the dishwasher |
| Colour | pink |
| For | dogs, cats |
| Brand | Trixie, Germany |
Pros
- Calming. Licking helps relieve tension.
- A distraction during care. Baths and nail trims go more smoothly.
- Suction cups. The mat stays put.
- Food-grade silicone. A non-toxic material.
- Dishwasher-safe. Easy care.
- Compact. Easy to take on trips.
Cons
- Small. A large dog will lick 18 cm clean quickly.
- Not for dry kibble. Designed for soft food.
- Silicone can be chewed. Use under supervision.
- Needs washing after every use. Food gets into the texture.
How to use it
Spread a thin layer of wet food, meat pâté or a pet-friendly treat and press it into the texture. Stick the mat to the floor, tiles or the side of the bath with its suction cups and give it to your pet. Start with a small, easy amount, then increase the quantity and variety once your pet gets the hang of it. To make it last longer, pop the mat with wet food in the fridge for a while. Wash the mat straight after use.
Baths, nail trims and grooming
The most popular use is distracting your pet during unpleasant procedures. Stick the mat with pâté to the side of the bath at muzzle height — while your dog licks, it's easier to wash. The mat also helps with nail trims, brushing and ear checks. Over time your pet builds a positive association with these routines. On bathing, see dog shampoo: how to choose it and how to bathe.
Lick mat or slow-feeder bowl
The mat is designed for soft food and treats — it keeps your pet occupied and calm. If your dog wolfs down a whole kibble meal, a maze bowl such as the CROCI Slow Bowl is a better fit. For mental stimulation, try the Trixie Flip Bone puzzle toy.
How much to give
Count what's on the mat as part of the daily ration: if you spread wet food, reduce the main meal by the same portion. Treats and pâtés should be no more than 10% of daily calories. This matters especially for dogs and cats prone to weight gain — more in overweight cats and dogs.
Safety
Silicone is soft, and a dog with a strong bite may try to chew the mat. Use it under supervision and remove it once the treat is gone. Replace the mat if pieces are chewed off or it cracks. Never use foods that are dangerous to dogs and cats, such as chocolate, onion, garlic or anything containing xylitol.
Who it suits
Owners of small and medium dogs and cats who want calmer baths and grooming, something to keep their pet busy at home or a way to help it relax. For large dogs, an 18 cm mat is more of a quick treat. More bowls and feeders are in the dog bowls and feeders section.
Verdict
The Trixie Licky Snack mat is a compact food-grade silicone lick mat with suction cups: it keeps your pet busy and calm, helps at bath and nail-trim time and is easy to wash. The downsides are that 18 cm is small for large dogs and the mat is best used under supervision.
FAQ
What size is the mat?
18 cm.
What's it made of?
Non-toxic food-grade silicone.
How does it attach?
With suction cups to smooth surfaces — floors, tiles or the side of a bath.
Is it dishwasher-safe?
Yes, and it can be washed by hand.
What should I spread on it?
Wet food, pâté or a suitable treat.
Is it suitable for cats?
Yes, it suits dogs and cats.
Can I use dry food?
It's designed for soft food; for kibble, a slow-feeder bowl is better.
Can I leave my pet alone with it?
It's best used under supervision so your pet doesn't chew the silicone.
