How to Make a Snuffle Mat

Snuffle Mats can be used for many purposes and for all types of animals.  Depending on the animal’s needs a Snuffle Mat can be a can be a toy, a soft place to snuggle or a method of offering food or treats that takes time for the animal to find, while also having to use their instinctual and tactile skills.  These are all examples of ways of providing your animal with enrichment.  Make your own Snuffle Mat at home by following these simple steps:

STEP 1

Start with a Hex Tile Rubber Mat or other plastic mat with holes. These ones were found at Canadian Tire.  For smaller Snuffle Mats others have used plastic sink straining mats. Cut the rubber to the size appropriate for your animal.  

STEP 2

Choose a fleece fabric or old fleece blanket and cut 8 to 10 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide.  

Loop the fleece through the hole and tie one knot at the top.  One knot is enough.

You can choose a colour pattern or tie randomly be creative!

STEP 3

Be sure to loop the fleece fabric around each hole in each direction to fill as many gaps as possible.  

Tying slightly looser knots can help to fill the holes.

And tada!  Your Snuffle Mat is ready to be enjoyed by your furry friend!

Snuffle Mats can be purchased at Cochrane & Area Humane Society in Norm’s Nook.  Come visit us today!  

Read more about Animal Enrichment.

By Janaia Hutzal