A lick mat works because licking is a self-soothing behaviour, not because it is a clever way to serve food. The repetitive action settles a dog or cat the way pacing settles some people, which is why these earn their keep at nail-clipping time, in the bath, in a vet's waiting room and on firework nights every bit as much as they do at mealtimes.

The surface is textured with fine channels that hold wet food, yoghurt or a smear of pet-safe peanut butter, so the tongue has to work along the grooves rather than clearing the lot in three passes. Silicone is food-grade and flexible, soft on a tongue, and it goes in the dishwasher or rinses in seconds. The suction base is what separates this from a plain mat: it grips a smooth floor or the side of a bath instead of skidding away.

• Food-grade silicone with a fine textured surface
• Suction-cup base grips smooth floors, tiles and baths
• Freezes well for a longer-lasting distraction
• Dishwasher safe, or rinses clean under a tap
• Suits dogs, cats, puppies and kittens
• Four colours: grey, blue, red or green
• Supervise use, as silicone is not chew-proof

Two things worth knowing. And the suction base needs a smooth, clean surface to hold; it will not stick to grout, wood grain or carpet, and no suction mat does.

Who it's for: Fast eaters, anxious pets facing a bath or a storm, and anyone who needs a cat or dog occupied for ten quiet minutes.