Pumpkin Power: Why Pets Love This Fall Favorite
Pumpkin season is here, and it’s not just us humans who get to enjoy it. This colorful, nutrient-packed ingredient offers plenty of perks for pets too. From supporting healthy digestion to keeping coats soft and shiny, a little pumpkin can be a simple, wholesome addition to your dog or cat’s diet.
Don’t forget — it’s always best to check with your vet before adding anything new to your pet’s menu, especially if they have a sensitive stomach or specific dietary needs.
Can dogs eat pumpkin?
Yes, they can — and many dogs love it! Plain, cooked pumpkin or canned pumpkin (the kind with no added sugar or spices) is safe and healthy in small amounts. It’s packed with fiber, which helps regulate digestion, and it’s full of vitamins A, C, and E that support skin, coat, and immune health.
If your pup has an upset stomach, a spoonful of pumpkin mixed into their food can help balance things out. It’s gentle on the stomach and adds moisture, which can also be helpful for dogs that don’t drink enough water.
How to serve pumpkin to dogs
Stick with plain pumpkin puree or baked pumpkin that’s been cooled and mashed. Avoid raw pumpkin, skin, or stems since they can be tough to digest. Skip pumpkin pie filling, which often includes sugar and spices that aren’t pet-safe.
Start with small servings. A teaspoon or two is plenty for smaller breeds, while larger dogs can enjoy a tablespoon mixed into their meal.
Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe
THE INGREDIENTS
1½ cups brown rice flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup mashed sweet potato
½ cup 100% pure pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
½ cup water
1 egg
1 teaspoon 100% pure organic maple syrup (no additives!)
DIRECTIONS
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix until a thick dough forms. Roll it out, cut into small shapes, and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cool completely before serving.
Notes
Store the treats in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for up to a month.
Can cats eat pumpkin?
They can, and many enjoy the taste. Pumpkin is rich in fiber, which helps keep a cat’s digestion regular and may reduce hairballs. It’s also full of water, making it a simple way to add moisture to their diet, which is especially helpful for cats that don’t drink much on their own.
Pumpkin also provides vitamins A, C, and E, along with potassium and a small amount of protein, all of which can support your cat’s immune health, vision, and coat. Some cats even benefit from a little pumpkin when they’re transitioning foods or recovering from mild digestive upset.
Always use plain, cooked pumpkin or 100% canned pumpkin with no additives. A teaspoon mixed into their wet food a few times a week is a good place to start.
Can cats eat pumpkin seeds?
It’s best not to. Seeds can be hard for cats to digest and may pose a choking risk, so skip them and stick to the puree instead.
Pumpkin + Tuna Cat Treats
Adapted from Perfect Cat Food
THE INGREDIENTS
• ⅓ cup pumpkin purée
• 1 small can tuna in water, drained
• 1 egg
• ½ cup oat flour
DIRECTIONS
Mix all ingredients together until blended. Drop small spoonful's onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes. Once cooled, store in the fridge and serve as occasional treats.
The Takeaway
Pumpkin is a simple way to add a little extra nutrition to your pet’s diet, and most dogs and cats love it. Just keep it plain, feed it in moderation, and check with your vet before making it a regular part of your pet’s routine. A spoonful here and there can make mealtime a little more seasonal, a little more nutritious, and a whole lot tastier!