Is Pumpkin Safe for Dogs and Cats? How Much Can I Give Them?

Many human foods can be dangerous for your pet.

• - Chocolate can cause diarrhea and vomiting
• - Garlic can result in anemia in dogs
• - Macadamia nuts are one of the most poisonous human foods for dogs to eat

But what about pumpkin? Is it safe to feed your dog or cat? And, if so, how much can you give them?

Let’s answer these questions below.

Why Are Dogs and Cats Sometimes Given Pumpkin?

Pumpkin is one of the most common human foods given to pets, and rightly so. It contains a bunch of potential health benefits specific to cats and dogs.

• - Its high fiber and water content can help with constipation
• - It contains the amino acid cucurbitacin, which paralyzes tapeworms and other intestinal parasites
• - It contains vitamin A and C, which help with vision and immune system support, respectively
• - The beta-carotene antioxidant helps slow the aging process
• - It contains plenty of zinc, which helps improve the quality of their coat
• - Pumpkin can help with hydration, as it is about 90% water
• - It helps remove hairballs in the intestine and passes them through the digestive system

It can even help with weight loss, as it helps your pet feel fuller, leading to less calories eaten.

However, pumpkin is most commonly given to pets to help with diarrhea symptoms. Its high fiber content helps harden stool, clear the digestive tract, and return your pet to their natural digestive state.

Going through all of these benefits, it’s hard to find a reason not to give your cat or dog some pumpkin.

But the question remains, is it safe?

Is It Safe to Give Dogs and Cats Pumpkin?

Yes, it is safe to give your dog or cat pumpkin.

(Phew, that was a relief.)

However, it’s not safe to give them (or let them eat) your rotting Halloween pumpkin on the front porch. That pumpkin is filled with toxins that could harm them.

The safest way is to feed your pet plain canned pumpkin. Most pets like the flavor, and you can have piece of mind knowing that it is safe to consume.

If you’re going to feed your cat or dog pumpkin seeds, which are an excellent source of carbs, protein, and fiber, roast the seeds and grind them up.

How Much Pumpkin Can You Give Them?

Ever heard of too much of a good thing? Pumpkin can be one of them.

You don’t want to overload your pet’s system with nutrients. This could be detrimental.

Here’s a good dosage of pumpkin to give your dog or cat:

• - One teaspoon of pumpkin for small pets
• - One or two tablespoons for large pets

Simply place it with their regular meal.

This will ensure that you don’t overload their system, and they will still get all of the amazing benefits.

To Wrap It Up

Pumpkin is a smart addition to your pet’s diet. It can help support digestive and immune system functioning in a variety of ways.

However, if you are skeptical about feeding your pet pumpkin, don’t hesitate to consult your vet beforehand.

See Also: Pet Parenting – Can Dogs Eat Avocado? Is It Bad or Good for Them?