Pumpkins have significant health benefits for people and pets so don’t discount this amazing food as just a fall tradition. Canned or plain cooked pumpkin is packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential to the health of our pets.
Some of the health benefits for dogs and cats are…
1. Combating dehydration: Pumpkin flesh is around 90% water, so a little pumpkin topping on a meal can combat dehydration resulting from moisture-deficient processed dry dog and cat foods. A dog or cat that is fed a dry food diet will always benefit from added moisture, dry kibble takes water from the body to hydrate and process dry kibble in the digestive system, pumpkin aids digestion by increasing the gastric juices essential to proper gastrointestinal health.
2. Helping with constipation: Fiber from pumpkin works in pets the same way it does in humans and can actually treat some gastrointestinal issues. A tablespoon or two of pumpkin can resolve symptoms in a few days if the gut is just a bit “out of order.” Some cats may experience decreased colon activity as they age, resulting in constipation. The added fiber from pumpkin increases the bulk of the stool and the colon muscles react by moving things along. The canned foods for cats and dogs we recommend that have already added pumpkin are Tiki Cat Aloha Friends and Weruva BFF for cats and Lotus Stews, Koha Stews and Weruva Stews for dogs.
3. Reducing Hairballs: By increasing the volume of waste in the intestine, 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.
4. Resolving Diarrhea: Pumpkin can soothe constipation but diarrhea can also be remedied with the addition of pumpkin to a dog or cat’s diet. It is particularly effective if the upset is the result of colitis caused by a rapid food change or the ingestion of a new food. All it takes is a teaspoon for small dog or cat and a tablespoon or two for a medium or large dog of canned pumpkin in the animal’s food. The Moab BARKery recommends using an organic canned pumpkin like Nummy Tum Tum or Weruva Pumpkin Patch. We also carry a product called Firm Up which is dehydrated pumpkin flakes that you add water to and use as a food additive either as needed or daily. Soluble fiber also draws moisture into the intestines, which will help combat the dehydration that comes with diarrhea.
5. Boosting Weight Loss: With 3 grams of fiber per cup, pumpkin can augment weight loss in dogs and cats. The fiber fills the tummy so your pet feels “fuller” sooner, meaning your pet eats fewer calories overall.
6. Supplementing Nutrition: One of the biggest benefits of pumpkin to pets and humans is its wealth of nutrition. Pumpkins contain carbohydrates, potassium, vitamin C, Vitamin A (from beta-carotene), iron, folate, magnesium, zinc, selenium, niacin, vitamin E, manganese, copper, and protein. You do not want to overload your pet’s system with these nutrients and trace minerals, however. This is not a case of a little bit being good and a lot being better, so make sure you are giving an appropriate amount for the size of your pet.
7. Adding Antioxidants: Pumpkin contains antioxidants which help moisturize skin, helping your pet maintain a healthy and shiny coat. Antioxidants are also a vital part of immune health, which will help with overall well being.
8. Providing Essential Fatty Acids: In addition to antioxidants, pumpkin seeds contain essential fatty acids with similar benefits. Pets may consume the seeds raw (if they are fresh) or enjoy the roasted version which store better. Lightly coat the seeds with cooking oil and roast in a 375-degree oven for 5 to 10 minutes for a daily treat your pet will love. Only offer a few seeds at a time to your pet (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.
Don’t grab that jack-o-lantern just yet though! Carved pumpkins are NOT something you want to feed your pets because mold begins rapidly growing inside them once the skin is broken. The best pet-safe sources are fresh or canned pumpkin cooked with no additional spices added. Do not get canned pumpkin designed for use in pie as this frequently contains spices and other ingredients. Opt for pure, plain pumpkin.
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