Is Pumpkin Good for Pets?

Is Pumpkin Good for Pets?

            Pumpkin is popular this time of year as we enjoy Halloween Jack-O-Lanterns and pumpkin pie and other desserts. But, did you know pumpkin may be good for our pets as well? 

            Pumpkin is high in fiber and can act as a natural stool softener for cats and dogs with constipation issues.  The unique digestible fiber of pumpkin can also help pets with diarrhea. While the soluble fiber in pumpkin can help control diarrhea in some patients, occasionally, too much pumpkin can cause diarrhea so stop or reduce the amount fed if diarrhea develops. This fiber may also help pets feel full and can be added to food to reduce calories and help promote healthy weight in pets. Cats can also enjoy pumpkin and it may reduce hairball formation. Pumpkin is a good source of iron, potassium and carotene as well as vitamin A which can support healthy digestion and eye health.

            Pumpkin seeds can also be fed to pets, but remove the shells and dry or roast them with no salt or spices.  Raw seeds can be difficult to digest, though if your pet accidentally eats a few when you’re gutting a pumpkin, it’s not cause for concern. Remember, use in moderation and, there are not really any health benefits to feeding pumpkin seeds so don’t go out of your way to add them to your pet’s diet.  Pumpkin seeds should NOT be fed to reptiles, guinea pigs or ferrets but rabbits, most rodents, and some birds can enjoy seeds in limited quantities.

            Other animals can enjoy pumpkin, too!  Herbivorous reptiles such as iguanas, skinks and bearded dragons can also be fed pumpkin flesh and other squash as part of their diets.  Ferrets, guinea pigs, rodents, rabbits, and some birds such as parrots can also eat pumpkin flesh as a treat, but, remember, avoid feeding the seeds to most reptiles, ferrets and guinea pigs.

            If you want to feed your pet some pumpkin, make sure it is plain canned pumpkin or roasted/cooked pumpkin with no sugar or spices.  If using fresh pumpkin, don’t feed the skin, stems or raw seeds, only the pumpkin flesh.  And don’t feed pets pieces of old Jack-O-Lanterns as it could become spoiled or moldy or may have been treated with bleach or other substances to slow rotting.  Be sure your pet is eating a balanced diet.  Pumpkin should only be used as an occasional supplement or treat.  Consult your vet for amounts, but generally a teaspoon or two is safe for cats or small pets and a tablespoon or two daily for dogs. 

This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/benefits-pumpkin-cats

https://www.petinsurance.com/healthzone/pet-health/pet-food-and-recipes/canned-pumpkin-for-dogs-and-cats/

https://be.chewy.com/can-dogs-eat-pumpkin-seeds/

https://www.purina.com/articles/dog/feeding/can-dogs-eat/pumpkin-sweet-potatoes