Lick mat with suction cups: what to look for
Written by LickBloomLick mat with suction cups: what to look for
A lick mat that stays put is a fundamentally different experience to one that slides around the floor. If you have ever watched your dog paw a mat across the kitchen tiles in frustration, you already know this. Suction is one of the most important practical features to look for in a lick mat, but not all suction designs are equal.
Why suction matters
A lick mat that moves is a lick mat that frustrates. Dogs who get frustrated during a licking session may paw at the mat, flip it, or start chewing the edges rather than licking the surface — defeating the purpose of encouraging slow, calm, focused licking.
Suction also opens up a much wider range of uses beyond the kitchen floor. A lick mat that sticks to vertical and overhead surfaces becomes a tool for: bath time (stuck to the wall of the bath or shower screen); grooming sessions (stuck to a fridge or wall at your dog's nose height); crate tray use; fridge door (pre-loaded and ready to go); and car travel.
Corner suction cups vs full-base suction grip
Corner suction cups
Some lick mats have individual suction cups at the four corners. The problem is physics. The suction force is concentrated at four small points, and the mat itself can bow or flex in the middle when your dog applies pressure. This flex weakens the seal at the corners, and the mat can pop off the wall unexpectedly.
Full-base suction grip
A full-base suction design means the entire underside of the mat grips the surface rather than relying on a few isolated points. The mat adheres like a single, unified suction layer.
This distributes the grip force evenly across the whole contact area. The result is a much more secure hold, even when your dog pushes against the mat. The mat can also flex slightly with pressure without breaking its seal.
The LickBloom Calm Ritual Lick Mat uses a full-base suction grip design, which is why it works reliably on bath walls, fridge doors, and other vertical surfaces.
What surfaces does suction work on?
Suction requires a smooth, non-porous, clean surface. Best surfaces: ceramic or porcelain tiles; glass (shower screens, glass doors, windows); stainless steel (fridge doors); smooth plastic (crate trays); polished sealed stone.
Suction does not work well on: textured or matte surfaces; timber; fabric or carpet; dusty or greasy surfaces (clean the surface first).
How to get the best suction
- Clean the surface first. Even a little dust or grease breaks the seal.
- Wet the mat base slightly. A barely damp suction surface grips better than a completely dry one.
- Press firmly. Press the mat flat with both hands and smooth outward from the centre to remove air pockets.
- Use at the right temperature. Very cold surfaces can cause suction to fail.
Bath time is a good place to start
If you have never used a lick mat during bath time, try it. Fill the mat with your dog's favourite high-value food, stick it to the bath wall at nose height, and place your dog in the bath. Many dogs settle into their mat and barely notice the washing happening around them.
More on using a lick mat for grooming: how to calm your dog at bath time. And for the full picture on safety: are lick mats safe for dogs?
The LickBloom Calm Ritual Lick Mat is designed with a full-base suction grip that works on tiles, glass, stainless steel, and smooth plastic. Food-grade BPA-free silicone, four texture zones, freezer and dishwasher safe. Free shipping Australia-wide. 30-day Love-It-or-It's-Free guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my lick mat keep falling off the wall?
The most common causes are a dirty surface, a surface that is too textured, or a mat whose suction base is still wet or soapy from a recent wash. Clean and dry the surface before applying, and make sure the mat itself is clean and dry on the suction side. Press it firmly into place before letting your dog use it.
Can I use a lick mat on the floor without suction?
Yes. Many pet parents use lick mats flat on the floor without engaging the suction. On smooth floors, some movement may occur. If your dog paws the mat, placing it on a non-slip bath mat underneath can help.
Does suction work on a frosted glass shower screen?
Frosted glass has a slightly textured surface, which can reduce suction strength. It may still grip, but press firmly and check that the mat holds before leaving your dog unattended.
How do I remove the mat from a wall without leaving a mark?
Gently lift one corner or edge to break the seal and peel the mat away slowly. Avoid pulling the mat straight off while the suction is at full strength.
Can I use a lick mat in the shower with my dog?
Yes. Many pet parents do exactly this. Stick the mat to the shower wall at nose height, fill it with a high-value treat, and shower your dog as normal.
