Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
Along with adorable Halloween pet costumes and leaves changing color, autumn welcomes a favorite fall flavor—pumpkin! Whether you add pumpkin spice to your latte or enjoy a slice of pumpkin pie, this orange gourd is the most popular squash in October.
While carving your jack-o'-lantern, you might wonder: Is it safe to let my pet eat pumpkin seeds or pieces? And is pumpkin good for dogs and cats? Learn why pumpkin can be a great addition to your pet's diet and how to safely incorporate it into meals, including any precautions you should take.
Nutritional Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs and Cats
Pumpkin is a powerhouse fruit full of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, potassium and magnesium.1 However, just because food is nutritious doesn't necessarily mean that it's safe or suitable for our pets to consume. In fact, some fruits like grapes are toxic foods dogs shouldn't eat. The seeds or pits of apples, apricots and cherries can also be dangerous for animals to consume.
Pumpkin contains vitamins A, C, E, potassium and iron, which are all vital for maintaining the health of your pet's skin, coat, immune system and overall bodily functions. Additionally, it's high in fiber, which can aid digestion, and it's low in calories.
Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs
Helps with digestive issues
The high fiber content in pumpkin is particularly beneficial for digestive health. Fiber aids in regulating bowel movements. The soluble fiber in pumpkin absorbs water, which can help with both constipation and diarrhea. For dogs suffering from digestive issues, a small amount of pumpkin can be a gentle and effective remedy.2
Supports urinary health
Pumpkin's high water content can support urinary health by promoting hydration and aiding in the elimination of toxins. Fresh pumpkin has a higher water content than canned, but canned pumpkin contains a higher concentration of nutrients. Either way, both are a good choice for your dog.3
Can help with weight loss or maintenance
Due to its low calorie and high fiber content, pumpkin is part of a healthy diet for your dog and an excellent choice for pups that need to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. It can be used as a filler to help dogs feel full and satisfied without adding extra calories to their meal.1
Promotes a healthy coat and skin
The vitamins and antioxidants in pumpkin contribute to a healthy coat and skin. Vitamin A, in particular, plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health, while other nutrients help keep the coat shiny and strong. Dogs with poor nutrition will likely have dull, dry hair.4
Benefits of Pumpkin for Cats
Eases hairball passage
For cats, one of the primary benefits of pumpkin is its ability to ease the passage of hairballs. The fiber in pumpkin helps move ingested hair through the digestive tract, reducing the likelihood of hairballs forming.5
Supports digestive health
Just like for dogs, the high fiber content in pumpkin aids in regulating bowel movements for cats and can help alleviate both constipation and diarrhea.6
Helps with weight control
Pumpkin's low calorie content allows it to serve as a filling meal addition without contributing to weight gain. This makes it a valuable addition to a cat's diet for weight control.7
Provides essential nutrients for overall health
The vitamins and minerals in pumpkin support various aspects of a cat's health, from a robust immune system to healthy skin and coat.
How To Add Pumpkin to Your Pet's Diet
Types of pumpkin to use
When adding pumpkin to your pet's diet, opt for pureed pumpkin; canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling); or fresh, cooked pumpkin. These forms are safe and easy to incorporate into meals.
Recommended serving sizes
For dogs, a couple of tablespoons of pumpkin per meal are usually sufficient, depending on their size. For cats, just a teaspoon mixed into their food can provide benefits.
Tips for introducing pumpkin gradually
Start with small amounts and observe how your pet reacts before increasing the quantity.
Ideas for incorporating pumpkin
Pumpkin can be mixed into your pet's regular food, used as a topper or even given as a treat. For a fun twist, freeze pureed pumpkin in ice cube trays for a refreshing treat on hot days.
Safe Pumpkin Parts for Pets
Flesh
The flesh of the pumpkin is nutrient-rich and safe for pets when cooked or pureed. It's the part that provides all the beneficial vitamins, minerals and fiber.
Seeds
Pumpkin seeds can also be a healthy treat for pets when given in moderation. They should be roasted and unsalted to avoid any adverse effects.8
Toxic Pumpkin Parts To Avoid
Stems and leaves
There are some foods dogs can't eat for various reasons, so avoid the stems and leaves of the pumpkin plant, as they can be toxic and cause gastrointestinal issues for pets.9
Raw pumpkin
Raw pumpkin is difficult for pets to digest and may cause stomach upset, so always cook pumpkin before adding it to your pet's diet. This is just one of the benefits of preparing home-cooked foods for dogs and cats.9
Pumpkin pie filling
Pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices that are harmful to pets. Stick to plain pumpkin to ensure your pet's safety.
Precautions and Considerations
Consulting with a veterinarian
Before adding pumpkin to your pet's diet, it's a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. The Pets Best 24/7 Pet Helpline offers access to veterinary experts for your pressing pet care questions, day or night.
Monitoring for adverse reactions
Monitor your pet carefully for any adverse reactions when introducing pumpkin. If you notice any digestive issues or other health problems, discontinue use and consult your vet.
Adjusting portions
Start slowly and adjust the portions of pumpkin based on your pet's size, weight and overall health. Overfeeding pumpkin to your pet can lead to digestive issues, so moderation is key.
Pets Best Has Your Back
Pumpkin is a nutritious and beneficial addition to the diets of both dogs and cats. Its high fiber content aids in digestion, and its rich array of vitamins and minerals supports overall health. By consulting with your veterinarian and introducing pumpkin gradually, you can enhance your pet's diet and well-being at any time of year, but especially in the fall or pumpkin season!
So whether you're dressing up your cat in a Halloween costume or going trick-or-treating with your dog, consider incorporating some pumpkin into your pet's meals or treats for a delicious and healthy boost.
Sources/ Citations
- “Health Benefits of Pumpkin," Frances Gatta and Amy Gopal (4/2024), WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-pumpkin
- “Can Pumpkin Help With Dog Diarrhea?" Anna Burke (3/2024), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/can-pumpkin-help-with-dog-diarrhea/
- “Health Benefits Of Pumpkin For Dogs," Gogi Grewal (11/2022), Dogs Naturally, https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/health-benefits-of-pumpkin-for-dogs/
- “Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog," Ryan Llera et al. (n.d.), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/coat-and-skin-appearance-in-the-healthy-dog
- “Treating Hairballs in Cats," Hilary Parker and Allison Torres Burtka (6/2024), WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/pets/cats/what-to-do-about-hairballs-in-cats
- “Can Cats Eat Pumpkin?" Sandra C. Mitchell (10/2022), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-pumpkin
- “Can Cats Eat Pumpkin? Vets Explain the Pros and Cons of This Tasty Fall Treat," Cynthia Sanz Carstens (1/2024), Reader's Digest, https://www.rd.com/article/can-cats-eat-pumpkin/
- “Pumpkin Seeds: Good Dog Treat, or Unsafe to Eat?" Brendan Howard (11/2020), Daily Paws, https://www.dailypaws.com/dogs-puppies/dog-nutrition/what-can-dogs-eat/can-dogs-eat-pumpkin-seeds
- “Feeding Pumpkin to Your Dog: Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?" (9/2023), Dog Child, https://dogchild.co/blogs/learn/feeding-pumpkin-to-your-dog-can-dogs-eat-pumpkin