It’s pumpkin season, y’all! And we KNOW you’re feeling guilty enjoying the pumpkin-flavored everything, without your pets.
So, the question of the day is…can dogs and cats eat pumpkin, too?
Absolutely!
Cross out the guilt trips and add the trip to your local pumpkin patch or supermarket with your fur-buddies. It’s time for a pumpkin haul!
A pumpkin for me, a pumpkin for you, a pumpkin for pets. Pumpkins for everyone!
We are going pumpkin crazy over here and your pets can join in on the fun.
Benefits of pumpkin for pets
Pumpkins are nutrient-rich food for pets. It contains fiber which can serve as a prebiotic for good bacteria to grow in the gut. Because of this great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. it is highly recommended for pets.
- Digestion: Pumpkin will aid with constipation, diarrhea and other rectal problems The high soluble fiber content is great for your pets’ digestion.
- Weight Loss: If your pets can stand to lose some pounds, pumpkin will do a good job of keeping them feeling full with lesser portions. Be sure to consult with your vet first!
- Health: Pumpkins contain a whole lot of vitamins and minerals such as A, C, E, Potassium, Beta Carotene, Iron which are important for your pet’s health. For brain and eye health, great coat, skin and muscle maintenance and immune system support, feed your cat and dog some good ole’ PLAIN pumpkin: puree or chopped up, with no additives.
How Much Is Enough?
As we all know, too much of anything can cause harmful effects. This is why, although pumpkin boosts pets’ fiber intake, you must remember that it is possible to have too much of a good thing. Too much pumpkin in your dog’s diet can cause some harmful effects.
According to Home Alive Pets, generally, 1 tsp of canned (or cooked and pureed) pumpkin per 10 lbs of body weight per day is a good standard to go by. As a general rule, treats (including fruits and vegetables) should never exceed 10% of your pet’s daily caloric needs.
To sum up, whether you want to eliminate this guilt of enjoying all the pumpkin glory without your pets, or you want to include your pet in the autumn festivities, pumpkin is a superfood that offers benefits for dogs and cats alike.
