When are Slow Feeders / Lickmats Right?
Does your dog gobble down their food too quickly? Although widespread, did you know this behaviour is dangerous? It puts your dog at risk of medical emergencies, such as choking or gastric bloat - both of which can be fatal. Lesser issues include indigestion, vomiting up undigested food, poor digestion or nutrient absorption. Fast eating may be because a dog is protective of their food. Last but not least, dogs eating too fast can be very messy with dog food getting everywhere.
If your dog wolfs down their food, get a slow feeder to help them eat at the right pace, and lessen the risks linked to eating too fast.
Lickmats provide enrichment for dogs. If your dog is understimulated, paralysed, recovering from illness or surgery, or on crate rest, a lickmat will keep their brains occupied. This is great for their wellbeing and emotional health.
How Will a Slow Feeders / Lickmat Help?
Slow feeders make food harder to access. The feeder’s patterned design slows down the rate of your dog’s feeding because food isn’t as readily available as it is from a normal, open bowl. This means your dog is less vulnerable to the problems associated with feeding too fast.
Lickmats will keep your dog engaged with life when they’re less mobile and they can’t go for walks, sniff the ground, play with their friends or chase a ball. Lickmats can also be put in the freezer and used in hot weather as a way to keep your dog cool. They can also be used if your dog is in rehabilitation. Move the lick mat away from them, or stick it onto a wall or window. This will encourage your dog to take a few steps towards it.
How to Pick a Slow Feeder or Lickmat?
The more complex a slow feeder’s design, the slower it will force your dog to eat. To a dog it’s all the same, but you might prefer different colours or designs. Consider how much food your dog normally eats and choose the appropriate size based on that. Likewise, most lickmats perform the same function but you may prefer a particular colour or design. And if your dog likes chewing, be sure to pick a robust , heavy-duty version.
Read about Cruciate Ligament Knee Injuries and how a lick mat can help a dog who is on crate rest, after TPLO surgery for example, and needs some stimulation for mental wellbeing.