The Secret Weapon Against the Wet, Yuck, & Gross from Your Pet

Ok, nobody's looking, so it's ok to confess. You're in the trust tree now. Admit it, your pet is nasty. Stinky, slobbery, dirty, and down right rude at times.

Muddy paws, food tsunamis, and those lovely "surprise" accidents are just another day in the life of a pet owner. But here's the thing: WaterHog pet mats don't just handle these messes—they practically beg for them.

"Designed to be disrespected" isn't just clever marketing—it's our battle cry1. While ordinary mats wave the white flag after a few rounds with your four-legged tornado, WaterHog pet mats stand ready for more. Yeah, they're gluttons for punishment.

For pet parents everywhere, these mats aren't just floor guardians—they're sanity savers. Go ahead, let your pets do their worst. WaterHog's got your back.

If you’re interested in learning more about all things WaterHog, be sure to check out our article “The Best Floor Mats on the Planet are Designed to be Disrespected.”

The Messy Reality of Pet Ownership: What We're All Dealing With

Living with pets means embracing a world of messes that non-pet owners, well… they’re a big reason why they’re not pet owners! From the minute they wake up until bedtime, our pet companions create an impressive array of cleaning challenges that test even the most dedicated pet parents.

Extremely wet, muddy boots and dog on a large WaterHog mat. Dog is shaking out on top of the mat.

Muddy paws and shedding fur: The never-ending battle

Every pet owner knows that sinking feeling when rain starts and the dog needs to go out. Muddy pawprints can turn clean floors into a messy adventure map within seconds. Many pet owners say they're "losing their mind over dirty paws" as their pets track mud all over the house2.

Pet owners with carpets or upholstery face bigger challenges. A Reddit user shared how their beige Maltese leaves paw prints "EVERYWHERE!" with "brown stains from mud" on their black couch2. The space between those cute paw pads can harbor bacteria and fungi, which might lead to pododermatitis—a painful infection of the skin between paws3.

Pet hair creates constant headaches. It "is perhaps the most pervasive cleaning challenge pet owners face" because it "seems to get into every nook and cranny of your home"4. Heavy shedding could signal health issues that need a vet's attention.

The solution? A well-placed, quality set of WaterHog doormats and/or runners will do wonders to prevent the spread of dirt , and debris from the bottom of paws while also grabbing hold of loose fur and hair.

Mealtime mayhem: Spills, splashes, and slobber

Overhead of split image of the WaterHog Cat Bowl mat (on the left) and Dog Bowl mat (on the right) overtop of a blurred image of dog food spilling out of a pet food bowl.

Feeding time with pets looks like feeding a toddler—except toddlers use utensils. From the big bully bowl pushers to the engaging performances of the bowl flippers, the habits of some leave a lot unwanted messes around their bowls. Food scatters everywhere, water splashes out, and slobbery bits end up feet away from the feeding spot.

And for the pets that wolf down their food like a Hoover vacuum risk choking, throwing up, and stomach problems. Yay.

Water bowls bring their own troubles. Pets splash, drip, or knock them over. This constant moisture can ruin floors and make them slippery. And for you maniacs out there that use towels under bowls, this is a literal petri dish for growing mold and funky smells.

The solution? By placing your pet’s bowl on a WaterHog Pet Bowl Mat, the wet, yuck, and gross from mealtime will be contained and off your floors.

Accidents happen: When nature calls at the wrong time

The best-trained pets still have indoor accidents sometimes. These "inevitable but dreaded indoor accidents"5 test our cleaning abilities and patience. Bathroom mishaps come with pet ownership, from puppy training to caring for senior pets with weak bladders.

Disposable training pads have become the go-to solution, but their durability and stability reduce the overall effectiveness, and they don’t really protect your flooring if you don’t catch it right away. Throw in the fact that you need to have a surplus on hand leading constant and costly purchases that really start to add up over time.

The solution? Believe it or not, a WaterHog and it’s closed-cell fiber surface and rubber backing are incredibly effective at addressing accidents from your pets. Better yet? They’re stain resistant and so easy to clean and fast drying.

How WaterHog Pet Mats Outperform the Rest

Regular mats give up when your pets make a mess, but WaterHog Pet Mats are built differently. These mats stand out with three innovative design features that regular mats can't compete with.

Rubber backing that actually stays put

A big problem with regular pet mats (or towels for you maniacs out there) is how they slide around right when you need them most. WaterHog solves this with advanced grip technology. Each mat comes with heavy-duty rubber backing that truly stays in place and protects the underlying floor below6.

This change revolutionizes life for pet owners. The mat stays firmly in position even when it's soaked or covered in dirt7. The beveled edges make safe transitions from floor to mat, and WaterHog has earned high-traction certification from the National Floor Safety Institute8.

No matter if it’s a big, bad bowl pusher or a fur baby with a case of the zoomies, a WaterHog is built to stay put.

A WaterHog Personalized Pet Bowl mat showcasing the durable rubber backing.

The science behind the bi-level surface design

The revolutionary bi-level design of a WaterHog works in two ways at once. The raised surface scrapes dirt from your pet's paws while lower valleys trap moisture and debris below where you step6. This isn't marketing hype - it's smart engineering. The mat's reinforced rubber nubs keep the pile from crushing under heavy paw traffic and substantially extend its life8.

Standard mats flatten within weeks, but a WaterHogs crush-resistant design keeps working year after year. The mix of thick and thin fibers creates the perfect surface to clean paws and contain water9.

Water-holding capacity that dunks the competition

WaterHog mats really shine with their ability to hold about a gallon of water per square yard—no other mat comes close7. That's about a pint of protection per square foot for your floors.

This amazing absorption comes from a WaterHogs water dam border design. This feature doesn't just collect water—it keeps moisture from spreading to surrounding floors. You'll never feel that squishy, wet sensation when walking on the mat, even if it's completely soaked7.

Regular mats let water seep through to your flooring, but WaterHogs design keeps water inside the mat. This helps protects your floors and subfloors from water damage7.

Best Door Mats for Pets: Conquering the Muddy Paws & Sharp Claws

Muddy paws and sharp claws make ordinary doormats cry uncle. But WaterHog? These mats live for the daily pet parade, especially when your four-legged friend discovers that irresistible backyard mud puddle. This is where WaterHog door mats become your home's first line of defense.

Small dog that's wet and muddy sits on a large WaterHog outdoor mat placed at the back door.

Dirt & Water Stops Here, Period

WaterHog mats don't just catch dirt—they trap it in solitary confinement. The bi-level surface works like a bouncer at an exclusive club, scraping mud and debris from paws, then banishing it to the valleys below foot level. Once dirt checks in, it doesn't check out onto the next set of paws or shoes crossing the mat.

Fret over rainy days and wet paws no more. A WaterHog has the ability to trap and hold a gallon of water per square yard, keeping moisture locked down tight instead of seeping into your floors. All WaterHogs feature a closed-cell fiber surface, which in layman terms means you won’t have to worry about mold or mildew, and it’s going to dry incredibly fast.

And if you’re tired of other doormats constantly slipping and sliding, a WaterHog features a non-skid rubber backing, meaning your pet doormat stays put even when your pets decide to recreate the Indy 500 with a case of the zoomies. The mat stays firmly in place even when it's soaked or covered in dirt7. The beveled edges make safe transitions from floor to mat, and WaterHog has earned the High-Traction certification from the National Floor Safety Institute10.

Claws? Bring 'Em On

While regular mats turn into confetti under pet claws, a WaterHogs crush-resistant construction stands tall. The millions of PET fibers on the surface of a WaterHog are tightly bonded with the rubber backing, and these mats scrape, dry, and drain without flinching—day after day, claw after claw. Our resident cat lady can attest to a WaterHogs ability to take a scratch to face without batting an eye.

The surface hits that sweet spot—tough enough to clean paws but gentle enough for sensitive toe beans.

Cat Parents, Here's a Bonus

Cat owners, listen up. WaterHog mats pull double duty by trapping those pesky litter granules that love to vacation throughout your house, while providing real floor protection from moisture and “other” things. The same valleys that capture mud become perfect prisons for wandering litter.

Just like those fancy "litter-corralling" mats, a WaterHogs textured surface grabs onto granules hiding between toe beans after bathroom breaks but with loads more durability.

Two mats for the price of one? Now that's something to purr about.

Pet Bowl Mats That Actually Give a (water) Dam About Your Floors

Be honest; mealtime for your pet is gross. Water splashes, slobbery food bits, and the occasional semi-puke turn your floors into danger zones. But WaterHog pet bowl mats don't just handle the mess—they contain it with precision.

A dog messily drinking water from a dog bowl placed on a WaterHog Pet Bowl Mat.

Your Floor's Personal Bodyguard

Think other mats can handle mealtime chaos? Think again. WaterHog engineered these bad boys with raised edges, creating a fortress around the entire perimeter. While other mats let liquid sneak through to your floors, WaterHog keeps it locked down tight.

We're not just talking water-resistant here—these mats feature waterproof fibers and rubber. That means about snowball’s chance in Hades of moisture sneaking through to warp, stain, or invite mold to your floor party. Just remember to pick it up and clean it from time to time, okay?

Because Your Pet Deserves Their Own Space

WaterHog doesn't just stop at function—we make these mats personal. Want your furry friend's name on their dining spot? Done. These personalized mats pack commercial-grade materials and functionality.

With multiple sizes and styles, these mats give even your big eaters plenty of real estate. From traditional to paws and bone vibes, we've got styles that'll make your home look good while taking a beating.

Clean-Up That Won't Make You Gag

Here's where WaterHog really shows off—cleanup's a breeze. After a big meal, just vacuum on your normal settings and call it a night.

When maybe it’s time for a more thorough cleanse, take it outside, shake it out, and give it a good rinsing and allow to air dry. Good as new.

WaterHog Stair Treads: Because Stairs Shouldn't Be Scary

Watching your pet struggle with stairs hurts. We know, we’ve been there. Whether it's age catching up or joint issues slowing them down, those steps can turn from pathway to obstacle course real quick. WaterHog Stair Treads turn those scary stairs into confident climbs.

Durable WaterHog stair treads in squares pattern in dark brown color are placed on outdoor stairs to help provide traction and grip for a dog going up the steps.

Old Dogs, New Tricks

Senior dogs battling arthritis or hip dysplasia shouldn't have to think twice about heading upstairs. Each step becomes a mini-mountain when joints aren't what they used to be, and one slip could mean disaster. WaterHog Stair Treads create that confidence-boosting grip that gets tails wagging again.

Remember those hesitation moments? When your older pup looks at the stairs like they're Mount Everest? Our treads help bring back their swagger while being gentle on those aging joints. Suddenly, those stairs aren't so intimidating anymore.

Here's the kicker: WaterHog Stair Treads don't just feel safe—they're NFSI certified for high traction 10. Because peace of mind shouldn't be a luxury.

Installation That Won't Make You Sweat

The best part? No engineering degree required. Because of the engineered rubber backing that WaterHog Stair Treads feature, all you have to do roll them out and lay them down.

Forget nails, tape, or any permanent "oops" moments. Just clean your steps, ensure they’re dry and free of degree, and place down the treads. Once they're down, these treads create a secure path for everyone—furry or not. Minimal movement is to be expected, but don’t worry because like we said earlier, they’re certified by the NFSI.

Got wooden stairs? Double win: your pet stays steady while those precious steps stay scratch-free. Because sometimes the best protection is the kind you barely notice.

WaterHog Cat Litter Mat: Cat Lovers Unite!!!

After years of being told by so many how effective a WaterHog was at addressing all the fun things that come with (and out) of having a litter box, we figured it was time. So yes – cat lovers unite!

When Kitty flings it, WaterHog brings it

If you’re cats an intensive digger and burier, you’ve finally found your litter box soul mate. The bi-level design and litter trapping fibers are the perfect duo to keep your litter room clean and tidy.

For the “I’m not happy with you humans so I’m going outside my box….” types

If you have a sassy cat, we feel your pain. So you’ll find comfort in the fact that a WaterHog is stain-resistant, easy to clean, and won’t hold on to the odors of the presents left behind (in or out of the box).

Clean It Like You Mean It: WaterHog Pet Mat Care Guide

Think a dirty WaterHog means it's failing? Think again. That trapped dirt or caked food is your mat showing off its work ethic. But even champions need a good scrub now and then. Here's how to keep your WaterHog in fighting shape.

Daily Dirt: The Quick Clean

When your WaterHog's collecting dirt like a trophy case, that's not a problem—that's proof it's doing its job. The bi-level surface loves playing catch with debris that would otherwise run wild through your home. Give it a good shake outside, or hit it with a vacuum for quick cleanup. Either way, your mat keeps its structure while dumping the dirt.

Pro tip: Clean mats work harder than dirty ones. Set up a cleaning date every few weeks. Your WaterHog will thank you by working overtime.

The Gross Stuff: Because Pets Happen

Every pet has their moments. When nature calls in all the wrong ways:

1. Grab those paper towels and blot like you mean it

2. Let baking soda work its odor-fighting magic

3. Hit it with mild detergent (skip the bleach, it's not your friend)

4. Give it a gentle scrub

5. Wait 15 minutes, then rinse until the water runs clear

Got red clay or bile (eww)? Same drill, but let that cleaning solution hang out longer. WaterHogs are gluttons for punishment, but they clean up nice.

Hose Down or Go to Town?

Muddy mat? A quick hose-down usually does the trick. Shake off the chunks, blast it with water, then let it air dry completely. Done and done.

Ready for the big guns? WaterHog mats can handle pressure washing—try that with your average mat. Just follow these rules:

· Start with mild soap

· White nozzle (40°) only

· Keep it under 2000 psi

· Stand back 12+ inches

· Let it dry completely

One more thing: skip the bleach and anything petroleum-based. They'll wreck your mat's rubber backing faster than a puppy with a new shoe. Treat your WaterHog right, and it'll keep taking your pet's worst for years to come.

Why Pet Parents Pick WaterHog: The Ugly Truth About Beautiful Mats

WaterHog doesn't just make mats — we make solutions that solve real problems, and there’s a lot of painstaking work that goes into it. While other brands talk big game, we're busy proving why we're the most battered, yet beloved mat in the world. Here's the dirt on why pet parents choose WaterHog.

Green Meets Mean: Eco-Friendly That Actually Works

Detail shot of WaterHog's Dog Paw Squares all-weather mat in a light tan/golden color, showing its dirt-trapping, bi-level surface.

Somewhere out there, a single-use bottle is about to become a million-use mat. Back in 2019, we flipped the script from polypropylene to recycled PET fibers. But unlike those "green" products that fold faster than a lawn chair, our fiber surface packs over 90% of recycled material while keeping its legendary toughness12.

Think eco-friendly means wimpy? Think again. These recycled warriors drink up to a gallon of water per square yard and laugh in the face of sun fade. Mother Nature approves, and so will your floors.

One Mat, Endless Battles

WaterHog mats don't do one-trick pony shows. Got mud? Hose it down. Litter scatter? The bi-level design sends it straight to mat jail11. From doorways to feeding stations to litter box zones, these mats handle it all without breaking a sweat.

Go ahead, throw your worst at it. Muddy paws, food tsunamis, surprise accidents—WaterHog takes them all in stride. Because that's what champions do.

Made in America – Enough Said

There are three things you can always count on in life: death, taxes, and WaterHog mats being made in America. We're not just talking assembly—we're talking real craftsmanship by American hands; from the rubber we make, to the fibers we extrude.

We put our money where our mouth is. Our entire team, from manufacturing to management, earns a livable wage, with real benefits, and retirement plans for the time after we stop making the world’s most disrespected mat. Happy workers make better mats—it's not rocket science, but it is mat science.

The World's Most Disrespected Mat is Actually... Insanely Respected

The life of a WaterHog mat isn't glamorous. It gets stomped on by muddy boots, drenched by soggy umbrellas, and scratched by pet claws—and it loves every second of it. Designed to be disrespected, WaterHog mats thrive under the abuse that would leave ordinary mats in ruins. Yet, despite their rugged demeanor, WaterHog mats command unparalleled respect for their durability and values.

WaterHog mats aren't just tough—they're practically indestructible. With hydrophobic PET fibers, durable rubber backing, and fade-resistant colors, these mats are engineered to thrive in the face of chaos. Rain, snow, sand, or heavy foot traffic? Bring it on. Each mat is rigorously tested to handle life's worst, proving time and again that it's not just durable—it's unstoppable.

And while the "disrespected" mantra may be tongue-in-cheek, the respect WaterHog has earned is very real. What sets WaterHog apart isn't just the performance; it's the values behind our brand and products. WaterHog mats are made in the USA by workers earning a livable wage, using recycled materials like rubber and PET materials that give new purpose to discarded car tires and plastic bottles. Backed by industry certifications and a satisfaction guarantee, they're a testament to quality, sustainability, and trust.

So go ahead, disrespect it. After all, it is the most battered, yet beloved mat in the world.

WaterHog Pet Mat FAQs

1. Will these mats really help reduce the mess my pet makes at mealtime?

We feel your pain. Constantly wiping up drool and slobber around the water bowl, bits of food that find their way across the floor. Not to mention the amount of paper towels and rags you go through just to keep your floor semi-clean.

If this is your story, we made WaterHog pet bowl mats for you. These mats are extremely effective at catching and containing the slobber, drool, water, and whatever else comes out that mouth. This helps protect you and your floors, eliminates waste, and saves you time every day.

2. They look great, but are they easy to clean?

Just like every WaterHog, our pet bowl mats are very easy to clean. Periodically vacuum or take outside and shake off to get the noticeable stuff.

When it needs a deeper clean, give it a good rinse. This can be done outside with a garden hose, or inside in a deep sink or tub.

Just remember to allow to air-dry completely before replacing, while also ensuring the floor underneath is dry and clear. Allows avoid harsh cleaners like bleach.

3. Are WaterHog mats safe for pets?

Yes. All WaterHog mats are free from PVC, phthalates, formaldehyde, latex, and PFAS (forever chemicals).

4. But will WaterHog bowl mats stay in place?

We know the type, the bowl shifters. WaterHog pet mats feature an incredibly resilient rubber backing that does two important things:

- Provides a protective layer that prevents moisture and grime from seeping to your floor underneath.
- Provides incredible grip and traction, helping reduce movement and shifting on most floors.

If your current bowl solution includes folded towels or old rags, you'll be amazed at the effectiveness of a WaterHog Pet Bowl Mat.