Even cats can’t deny that pumpkin is a very sweet treat!
We watch our humans use pumpkin in their desserts, roast its seeds, and even carve strange faces into its skin every fall. It’s truly bizarre!
The real question is whether pumpkin is good for cats. I’m happy to share that the answer is a resounding YES, and for many reasons.
Here’s why you may want to consider adding pumpkin to your cat’s diet and some great ways to offer the delicious snack to your furry friend.
4 Benefits of Pumpkin for Cats
1. Healthy Fiber
Pumpkins are rich in fiber, making them a go-to natural remedy for constipation in cats. If you notice that your cat is a little backed up “back there,” feeding them a spoonful of pumpkin may do the trick!
The fiber in pumpkins can also relieve diarrhea, prevent issues in the anal glands, reduce hairballs, and help cats feel fuller longer, making it perfect for felines on a diet.
2. Packed With Vitamins and Nutrients
We need our vitamins, too! Pumpkin is jam-packed with vitamins A, C, and E, which are essential to our immune systems and eye function.
Alpha-carotene and iron are other vital nutrients present in pumpkin that prevent damage to cells and support cytoplasmic functions.
3. Relief From Inflammation
Pumpkin seeds contain plenty of antioxidants and omega-fatty acids that are known to reduce inflammation. This makes them a great supplement for cats suffering from urinary infections or arthritis!
4. Creates Glowing Skin and Coat
Beauty like this doesn’t just happen on its own. The high amounts of zinc found in pumpkin help create the luxurious coat you love to run your fingers through, so more pets, please!
The Best Ways to Give Pumpkin to Your Cats
Now that you know pumpkin is good for cats, I’m sure you’re ready to serve it to your fur babies.
First things first!
One of the most important things to remember when feeding pumpkin to your feline is to use pure pumpkin and NOT pumpkin pie filling. While the sweet and delicious treat is perfect for human food, it could contain spices that are toxic to cats.
Not to mention the high amount of sugar could be a detriment to cats with diabetes.
If you plan on using canned pumpkin, double check that it is pure pumpkin puree and mix one teaspoon into your cat’s food daily. You can also offer it to them directly as a special snack or use it as an ingredient in homemade cat treats.
Fresh pumpkin can also be used for do-it-yourself recipes. Roast or steam the fruit or grind the seeds into a powder before adding it to your cat’s food. Make sure to remove the pumpkin’s stems, skin, and raw pulp before serving since those parts may not agree with our digestive systems.
Also, as with any new food, it’s a good idea to monitor your cat’s bathroom habits after feeding. It’s unlikely that pumpkin will make your cat sick as long as you offer it in reasonable amounts, but if it does, you’ll be able to tell by the state of your cat’s poo right away.
If you’re still unsure whether to feed pumpkins to your fur babies, consult with your cat’s doctor. They’ll be able to answer any of your questions and determine whether adding pumpkin to your cat’s diet will be beneficial to their unique health needs.
The Purrfect Wet Cat Food With Pumpkin
Pumpkin has become a popular ingredient in many cat foods thanks to the fruit’s wide variety of benefits. When you visit your local pet store, you’ll be sure to see pumpkin on several pet food labels.
So how do you know which one is best for your cat? Allow me to make a recommendation to help you get started!
My humans and I believe that wholesome, high-quality cat food (minus the sky-high price tag) should be accessible to all cat parents and their pets. That’s why we set out to create Love, Nala, a line of super premium cat food made with nutritious ingredients and flavors cats love.
We’re no strangers to the benefits of pumpkin, so you’ll find some great wet cat food options with pumpkin as one of the main ingredients including:
- Chicken with Pumpkin: Made with real shreds of chicken to support lean muscles.
- Chicken Pate with Carrot & Pumpkin: Features essential nutrients including carrot, which is an excellent source of Vitamin K and manganese.
- Mackerel with Carrot & Pumpkin: Satisfy your cat’s seafood cravings with tasty fish and all the benefits of carrot and pumpkin.
Your cat deserves the best, so find your cat’s favorite flavors in our Cat-a-logue, and don’t forget to check out our tasty mousse treats.
Let’s Be Friends
Your cats are already important members of your family, and we’re excited to make them a part of our family too!
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Thanks for stopping by! My humans and I are so happy to have you as a part of our feline-loving community.
Love,
Nala
