Why Use Pumpkin as a Dietary Supplement for Your Pet
Pumpkins have a centuries-long world history—but they are more useful today than ever. It’s a great source of fiber, which can help with digestive issues. It's also packed with vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, and beta-carotene. All of these nutrients can help boost your pet's immune system. Pumpkin can also help with weight control, as it's low in calories and fat.
Pumpkins are a versatile food that has been important to humans for centuries. But pumpkins also contain vitamins and minerals essential for our pets' health. Canned or plain-cooked pumpkins and pumpkin seeds are a great source of these nutrients.
Raw or Cooked Pumpkin?
Dogs can eat both raw and cooked pumpkins. However, if your dog has kidney disease or diabetes, you may want to check with your vet before feeding them raw pumpkins.
You can try feeding your dog raw or cooked pumpkin to see which he prefers. If he doesn't seem to like either, you can try adding pumpkin flour to his food, mixing pumpkin puree with his food, or making treats with pumpkin and other ingredients.
Even though raw pumpkin is safe for dogs to eat, it might be better to serve them cooked pumpkin. This is because raw pumpkin pulp is harder for them to digest. Also, cooking enhances the taste and makes your dog appreciate this healthy food even more.
Are Pumpkin Seeds Safe for Pets?
Pumpkin seeds are more than just a delicious snack—they're packed with nutrients that can support your health in many ways. When carving a pumpkin, take care not to throw out the seeds—save them to enjoy later.
Pumpkin seeds are a versatile ingredient used in sweet or savory dishes. To roast them, simply toss the seeds in a bit of oil and bake at a low temperature until they're crispy. You can also grind them up in a food processor and use the flour in recipes like muffins. You can sprinkle ground seeds on your dog's food to make it safe for them to eat.
What About Pumpkin Skin?
Pumpkins are safe for dogs, but their skin is tough and not very digestible. It's best to avoid feeding your dog raw or cooked pumpkin skin. The pup may have difficulty digesting the pumpkin skin, which could lead to constipation. When cleaning a pumpkin, make sure to remove all the peel.
Benefits of Pumpkins to Pets
Here are several reasons to feed your pet pumpkin:
1. It Helps with Constipation
Pumpkin can help with your pet's gastrointestinal issues in the same way that it helps with human issues. A tablespoon or two of pumpkin can resolve symptoms within a few days. Some cats may experience decreased colon activity as they age, which can result in constipation. The added fiber from the pumpkin will help increase the bulk of the stool, and the colon muscles will react by moving things along.
2. It's a Great Source of Nutrition
Pumpkins are a great source of nutrition for both pets and humans. They contain carbohydrates, potassium, vitamin C, Vitamin A (from beta-carotene), iron, folate, magnesium, zinc, selenium, niacin, vitamin E, manganese, copper, and protein. However, you want to give your pet only a few nutrients and trace minerals. A little bit is good, but too much can be bad.
3. It Combats Dehydration
Pumpkin is a great way to keep your dog or cat hydrated, especially if they eat a lot of dry food. Pumpkin also aids in digestion and helps keep the gastrointestinal system healthy.
4. It Boosts Weight Loss
Pumpkins can be a great way to help your pet lose weight. They will feel full sooner and eat fewer calories by filling their stomachs. Pumpkin is also a good source of fiber, which can help promote a healthy digestive system.
5. It's Rich in Antioxidants
Pumpkin contains antioxidants, which help to keep your pet's skin moisturized and their coat healthy and shiny. It can also be helpful for pets who suffer from allergies or other skin conditions. The antioxidants in pumpkin can help to soothe irritated skin and promote healing. Pumpkin is also a natural anti-inflammatory, which can help to reduce swelling and discomfort.
6. It Contains Essential Fatty Acids
Pumpkin seeds are full of antioxidants and essential fatty acids—making them a great treat for your pet. You can give your pet raw seeds (if they are fresh) or roasted—roasted seeds store better. To roast the seeds, lightly coat them with cooking oil and roast them in a 375-degree oven for 5 to 10 minutes.
Only offer a few seeds at a time to your pet, as the fiber can cause a softening of the stool. Store the seeds in an airtight container or freeze them. If your pet is small, you can grind up the seeds to ensure they are easier to digest and don’t get caught in the intestine.
7. It Resolves Diarrhea
Pumpkins can help with both constipation and diarrhea in pets. Pumpkin can be especially effective if the pet has colitis from a sudden change in food or from eating new food. Add a teaspoon (for small dogs and cats) or tablespoon (for medium and large dogs) of canned pumpkin to the pet's food.
8. It Helps Control Parasites
Pumpkin seeds contain a compound called cucurbitacin, which is thought to have anthelmintic (worm-killing) properties. Additionally, the seeds may help prevent kidney and bladder stones, and some studies have shown anti-inflammatory effects. Pumpkin seeds can be ground up and added to food, but it's best to start with a small amount and see how your body reacts.
9. It Reduces Hairballs
Pumpkin can help your cat digest and eliminate fur swallowed during grooming. This can reduce or even prevent the formation of hairballs that are eventually regurgitated.
Conclusion
Pumpkin is an excellent dietary supplement for pets for several reasons. It’s a good source of fiber which can help with digestive issues, and is also low in calories. Additionally, pumpkin is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, which is important for eye health. Pumpkins can also help to settle an upset stomach and can be given to pets who are vomiting or have diarrhea.
Earthwise Pet Fremont are certified pet dietitian and pet nutrition specialists. Our natural pet food offerings are vetted extensively and all food products we select for the store are meat-based and free of corn, wheat, soy and by-products. It’s our goal is to help you find the most biologically appropriate foods for your pet. Visit our local pet store in Fremont, WA, for healthy dog food and snacks to feed your pet!