Rethink the Bowl
Does your dog inhale their food? Does your dog have digestive issues? Does your dog get anxious or stressed in certain situations? Are you looking for a way to keep your dog occupied? Do you like to try out new and unique products for your pup?
If you answered yes to any of the above, a lick mat or slow-feeder bowl might be just the thing.
What exactly is a slow-feeder dog bowl? They come in many different styles and designs, but the main idea is to make your dog work a little harder for their food by incorporating nooks, crannies, and mazes. The result is that meal time becomes an engaging puzzle-like activity that naturally slows down their eating and encourages food exploration.
Lick mats are flat, textured mats, usually made of silicone. They are designed primarily to promote licking rather than to accommodate or slow down their meals. The mats are meant to be spread with softer goodies like peanut butter, canned food, yogurt, mashed banana, goat whip, or pumpkin puree.
Providing unique ways for dogs to “work” for their meals is extremely beneficial to their health and well-being, perhaps because before dogs were domesticated, they had to hunt and forage for food. A slow feeder bowl has two primary benefits.
- Improved digestion: Like humans, when dogs take longer to chew and swallow their food, there is less stress on their digestive system. They are less likely to overeat or experience gas or bloating.
- Mental stimulation. A dog’s need for mental enrichment is often overlooked, but it is just as important as physical exercise. A slow feeder bowl is like solving a puzzle, which helps keep their mind active, can prevent boredom, and encourage focus and concentration.
Licking has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. The repetitive action of licking is very calming for dogs. While it may seem strange, many dogs are exhausted after a good lick session and it tires them out as much as a long walk! Lick mats can also be used as a distraction in stressful situations such as getting nails trimmed. They are ideal for keeping your dog occupied and to help alleviate boredom. For dogs with excess energy, lick mats provide a way to channel some of that energy, which may help reduce problem behavior. You can freeze the mat to make it last longer.
While there are many types of slow feeders and lick mats available, the Feast Mat, made by West Paw, is a combination of both – lick mat on one side, slow feeder on the other. It is thoughtfully constructed so that dogs don’t get frustrated by sections that are too small or too difficult to reach. Some of the treat hiding toys, such as the Toppl, can also be used as a more challenging slow feeder. West Paw is a company that emphasizes sustainability. The Feast Mat is made with their signature Seaflex® material. Seaflex contains recycled ocean-bound plastic, but in a way that’s completely safe for pets with no harmful toxins.