Pumpkin for Cats 101: Can Cats Eat Pumpkin?

Why Should I Feed My Cat Pumpkin?

Holistic vets and pet professionals often recommend supplementing your cat’s diet with essential nutrients. Pumpkin for cats can play a valuable role in filling nutritional gaps that your pet’s regular food may not provide. For instance, a deficiency in vitamins like Vitamin C or A can lead to various health issues in cats. Pumpkin, with its rich nutritional profile, can help prevent these problems. As pet parents, we always strive for the best for our feline companions, and while it shouldn’t replace their main diet, the appealing taste of pumpkin for cats can serve as a special treat or dietary supplement.

What are the health benefits of pumpkins for cats?

Despite being associated with spooky Halloween decor, cats eating pumpkins can benefit from all the veggie’s essential nutrients!

Rich in nutrients

Pumpkins are low in calories but high in nutrients. They contain potassium, which regulates blood pressure, supports muscle health, and aids metabolism meaning pumpkin for constipation in cats is extremely helpful. Additionally, pumpkins offer various vitamins, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, and folate. 

Great for eye health

Cats eating pumpkins can benefit from the Vitamin A (beta carotene), which is crucial for eye health and brain development. The zinc found in pumpkins contributes to retina development.

Immunity booster

Vitamin C, when combined with other antioxidants in pumpkins, can enhance your cat’s immunity.

Weight management

Thanks to their high moisture and fibre content, pumpkin for cats effectively help our pets manage their weight. The fibre and added water in pumpkins keep cats feeling full, reducing their cravings for additional calories.

Skin and Coat Health

The Vitamin A and zinc in pumpkins can improve your cat’s skin and coat. The high water content in pumpkin for cats flesh also provides hydration, contributing to fresh, flexible skin and a glossy coat.

Hydration

Like any animal, drinking water is important for cats and pumpkins can help them stay hydrated. Cats on a dry kibble diet often struggle to consume sufficient water with their meals and may lack a strong thirst drive. Fresh pumpkin for cats, with its high moisture content, can naturally add more water to your cat’s diet. Pumpkin for cats with diarrhea also helps them replenish any liquids they may have lost during their sickness. For consistent hydration, consider one of our Bold by Nature recipes with high moisture content, like a raw cat food diet. These diets are packed with nutrition and are the best food for hyperthyroid cats.

Other Ways to Serve Pumpkin to Your Cat

Now that we’ve answered “can cats have pumpkin”, While Pumpkin Powder with Inulin Prebiotic is a convenient option, there are other ways to serve pumpkin to your cat. These include fresh pumpkin, canned pumpkin, pumpkin seeds, and sugar-free pumpkin puree. Remember that cats are known for their discerning palates, so offering them a variety of pumpkin preparations can help you discover their preferences.

Parts of the Pumpkin to Avoid for Cats

Cats can safely consume most parts of the pumpkin, but there are a few exceptions to keep in mind. First, ensure your cat doesn’t consume the stringy pulp found in the center of the pumpkin. The Animal Humane Society also says to discourage them from eating the stem, which provides no nutritional value and can cause digestive issues. While eating a whole pumpkin won’t necessarily make them sick, it can lead to constipation, blockages, and loose stools due to the high fibre content. Finally, be cautious with carved pumpkins, as they can develop mold and harmful bacteria, potentially making your cat ill. Keep carved pumpkins out of their reach.

Storing Pumpkin for Your Cat

Pumpkin comes in various forms, like fresh or canned, and each requires specific storage methods. Canned pumpkin for cats should be refrigerated and is safe to eat for 3-4 days after opening. Pumpkin puree for cats can be stored in the freezer, allowing you to serve it as a frozen treat. Bold by Nature+ Pumpkin Powder with Inulin Prebiotic has a longer shelf life and doesn’t require refrigeration; it can be stored in a cool, dry place.

Can I feed canned pumpkin or pumpkin puree for cats?

Yes, you can feed plain canned pumpkin or pumpkin puree for cats, but monitor the quantity carefully. Large and giant cat breeds should have no more than 1 tablespoon once or twice a day, while small to medium breeds should have no more than 1 to 2 teaspoons. Surprisingly, canned pumpkin or pumpkin puree for cats often contains more nutrients than fresh pumpkins due to its lower water content.

Can cats eat pumpkin seeds?

According to Pet MD, cats can eat pumpkin seeds, but although they’re not toxic to our pets, they can still pose a choking hazard, especially when eaten quickly. If too many are eaten, it could even result in an intestinal obstruction. If you do plan on feeding your cat pumpkin seeds, make sure to feed in small quantities with you close by.

Can My Cat Eat Pumpkin Pie Filling?

While it may be tempting to share pumpkin pie filling with your cat during the holiday season, it’s best to avoid it. Pumpkin pie filling contains sugars, spices, additives, and fillers that are unnecessary for your cat’s diet and can make them ill. Ingredients like cinnamon in large amounts can lead to vomiting, digestive issues, low blood sugar, and liver problems. Nutmeg, another common pumpkin pie spice, contains the toxin myristicin, which can cause disorientation, high blood pressure, and seizures in cats. Instead, opt for the alternatives mentioned above, such as Bold by Nature+ Pumpkin Powder with Inulin Prebiotic.

What Is Pumpkin Powder for Cats?

In addition to canned pumpkin and other familiar forms of this veggie, pumpkin can be found in a convenient powder form designed for cats. Pumpkin powder is a dietary supplement that can offer numerous benefits to your furry friend, making it an easy and efficient way to incorporate pumpkin into their diet.

What Are the Health Benefits of Pumpkin Powder for Cats?

Pumpkin powder comes with a range of benefits for cats. We offer Bold by Nature+ Pumpkin with Inulin Prebiotic, a supplement specifically designed to support your pet’s digestive health. It’s good to give pumpkin for cats with diarrhea as it also contains an added source of fibre that can help soothe digestive issues and improve intestinal health. The inulin found in this supplement promotes a healthy balance of gut bacteria, supporting a favourable gut flora.

How to Feed Pumpkin Powder to Cats

Feeding pumpkin powder to your cat is a straightforward process. We recommend giving your cat one dose of Pumpkin Powder with Inulin Prebiotic every day, with the exact amount based on their body weight. The supplement comes with a convenient scoop to ensure you provide the correct dosage easily. Here’s a simple guide to help you determine the right amount:

Up to 5 pounds = 1/4 scoop

5 to 10 pounds = 1/2 scoop

Over 10 pounds = 1 scoop

Once you’ve measured the appropriate amount, mix it with an equal part of warm water and use a syringe to gently administer it directly into your cat’s mouth or mix it into their food. If your cat is experiencing digestive issues, you can give pumpkin powder twice a day for up to five days.

What Kind of Food Should I Add Pumpkin Powder to?

You can easily incorporate pumpkin powder into your cat’s current diet. For additional benefits, consider mixing it with a Bold by Nature raw recipe. A raw food diet offers numerous advantages, including improved joint health and a shinier coat, and the addition of pumpkin powder can enhance these benefits.

How will pumpkin powder help my cat with digestive upset?

Pumpkin is a fibre-rich food that contains vital vitamins and minerals, making pumpkin for constipation in cats a great option. The soluble fibre in pumpkin powder adds bulk to your cat’s waste by absorbing water, promoting energy production, intestinal sodium absorption, and maintaining a balanced pH level in the large intestines. Additionally, the prebiotics in pumpkin powder support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria while inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, making it an effective remedy for digestive upset in cats. For severe digestive issues, it’s advisable to consult with your holistic veterinarian.

Are there any side effects of pumpkin powder for cats?

While pumpkin powder is generally safe for cats, it’s essential not to overdo the dosage. Adding excessive fibre to your cat’s diet can lead to loose or soft stools. Refer to our feeding guide above to determine the right amount of pumpkin powder for your cat.

 

Is pumpkin also good for dogs?

If you’re wondering is pumpkin good for dogs, then yes, dogs can also enjoy the benefits and taste of pumpkin! The dosage guidelines for Bold by Nature+ Pumpkin Powder with Inulin Prebiotic are the same for dogs as they are for cats, and you can find the dosage information earlier in this blog post.

Are there other Bold by Nature+ Supplements that support digestion for cats?

Yes, our Bold by Nature+ product line includes supplements designed to benefit pets in various ways. Our Slippery Elm with Prebiotics is another supplement that supports digestive health in cats. Slippery elm promotes a healthy digestive system, while psyllium, a prebiotic fibre, supports beneficial gut bacteria and promotes favourable gut flora. You can explore all our Bold by Nature+ supplements to find the right options for your cat.