Why Pumpkin is Great for Dogs and Cats

Pumpkin isn’t just for fall festivities, pies, and lattes—it’s a superfood that offers a wide range of health benefits for our pets year-round. From its rich nutritional profile to its well-known digestive support, pumpkin can be an excellent addition to your dog or cat’s diet. Here’s why pumpkin is a pet parent favorite and how to use it safely.

🍂 1. Nutritional Benefits of Pumpkin

Pumpkin is packed with essential nutrients that help support overall pet health:

Fiber – The soluble fiber in pumpkin aids digestion and helps regulate bowel movements. It can alleviate both diarrhea and constipation by either firming stools or softening them, depending on your pet’s needs.
Beta-carotene (Vitamin A) – Essential for healthy vision, a strong immune system, and maintaining skin, coat, and muscle health.
Vitamin C – An antioxidant that supports immune health, collagen production, and protection against oxidative stress.
Potassium – Helps maintain muscle function, supports heart health, and aids in enzyme regulation.
Zinc – Promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Iron – Vital for transporting oxygen throughout the body, keeping pets energized and strong.

🐾 2. Soothing Upset Stomachs

One of the best-known benefits of pumpkin is its ability to soothe digestive issues.

For diarrhea: The soluble fiber in pumpkin absorbs excess water, helping to firm up loose stools.
For constipation: Pumpkin’s moisture and fiber content can soften hard stools, promoting easier, more regular bowel movements.

This dual action makes pumpkin a go-to natural remedy recommended by many veterinarians for mild digestive troubles.

🎃 3. Which Type of Pumpkin is Best?

Not all pumpkin is created equal! Here are safe options to consider:

Pumpkin supplements: At J-B Pet Supplies, we carry Fruitables Pumpkin Digestive Supplement (Fruitables Frutables Pumpkin Digestive Supplement “Trans”)—a 100% pumpkin product designed to help with food transitions or daily digestive support.
Canned pumpkin: Choose 100% pure pumpkin puree with no added sugar, salt, or spices. Avoid pumpkin pie filling—it contains ingredients that can be toxic to pets.
Fresh pumpkin: Wash thoroughly, remove seeds and skin, cook, then mash or puree before serving.
Pumpkin seeds: When cleaned, roasted, and ground, pumpkin seeds can be a nutritious snack in moderation. They are high in healthy fats but should only be given sparingly (about one ground seed per 10 lbs of body weight).

🥄 4. How to Feed Pumpkin to Your Pets

For Dogs:

Small dogs: Start with 1 teaspoon mixed into food.
Medium dogs: Begin with 1 tablespoon.
Large dogs: Up to 2–4 tablespoons, depending on size.
Always monitor their reaction and adjust gradually.

For Cats:

Start with ½ to 1 teaspoon mixed into their wet food.
If well tolerated, you can increase up to 1 tablespoon per feeding, but no more.

⚠️ 5. Tips and Precautions

Introduce pumpkin gradually to avoid worsening stomach upset.
Store leftover canned pumpkin in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week (or freeze in small portions for later use).
Pumpkin should be an addition to a balanced diet, not a replacement.
Always consult your veterinarian if your pet’s digestive issues are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms.

🧡 Conclusion

Pumpkin is more than a seasonal treat—it’s a year-round nutrient-rich superfood that supports digestion, immunity, skin, and coat health in both dogs and cats. Whether served as a topper, mixed into food, or offered as a supplement like Fruitables Pumpkin, pumpkin is a safe and effective way to boost your pet’s nutrition and keep their tummy happy.

Stop by J-B Pet Supplies to check out our full line of healthy pumpkin products and supplements, and let our knowledgeable staff help you find the best option for your furry family member.