Pumpkin: A Healthy Fall Treat for Your Pet

Pumpkin isn’t just for pies and lattes—it’s great for pets too! But, never feed pumpkin pie or pie filling. Only pure pumpkin.  Pumpkin is found in about 20% of dry dog foods and over 15% of dry cat foods, pumpkin is a popular ingredient packed with health benefits.

 

While there’s not a lot of research on how it affects pets, no evidence shows it causes harm. Pumpkin is loaded with fiber and nutrients like potassium, vitamins A and C, and beta-carotene.

Why Pumpkin is Good for Pets

  • Soothes Digestive Issues
     Pumpkin helps with both diarrhea and constipation, making it perfect for dogs with upset stomachs or IBS.

  • Packed with Nutrients
     Pumpkin is low in calories and fat but full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals like magnesium and zinc.

  • Pumpkin Seeds are Powerful
     Pumpkin seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and nutrients that may help with insulin regulation, urinary health, and reducing inflammation.

  • Helps Manage Weight
     Adding pumpkin to meals helps pets feel full without extra calories, making it a great tool for weight management.

  • Easy to Find Year-Round
     Canned pumpkin is convenient and available all year, making it simple to include in your pet’s diet.

  • Pets Love the Taste
     Most dogs enjoy pumpkin, even picky eaters. It’s also a good option for dogs with food allergies.

  • Extra Benefits
     Pumpkin may improve your pet’s skin and coat health. Researchers are even studying its potential as a natural way to fight parasites like tapeworms.

Pumpkin for Cats Too

Pumpkin isn’t just for dogs! It can help cats with digestive issues and even reduce hairballs.

How Much Pumpkin Should You Feed?

For small dogs, try a few teaspoons of pumpkin per day. Larger dogs can have a few tablespoons. Always start with a small amount and check with your vet to find the right serving size for your pet.

Tips for Feeding Pumpkin

  • Use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie mix with added sugar and spices.
  • Freeze leftover pumpkin in ice cube trays for easy use later.
  • Don’t feed pets old or carved pumpkins—they could be moldy or unsafe.
  • Keep a can of pumpkin handy to help with upset stomachs or constipation.

Pumpkin is a simple, affordable way to boost your pet’s health. Talk to your vet to see how this fall favorite can become a regular part of your pet’s diet!