Is Pumpkin Good for Pets? Benefits, Recipes, and Safety Tips
- Deniza Marcinkevica
- Oct 30
- 3 min read
By Taquera Woodson, Social Media Intern and Deniza Marcinkevica, Manager, Business Development, Skytails.com
Pumpkin isn’t just a fall favorite for humans; it can also be a healthy, tasty treat for your pets. Pumpkin has many healthy benefits, and it is packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Pumpkin can support digestion, hydration, and even weight management. It is important to know the safety of any food that you may give to your pet. Plain, cooked pumpkin is considered safe for most dogs and cats. It can be canned or fresh, and is a great addition to their diet. You should avoid giving your pet pumpkin pie, pumpkin-flavored human desserts because they contain sugar, spices, or toxic ingredients like nutmeg.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin for Pets:
Supports Digestive Health
Pumpkin is rich in soluble fiber, which helps regulate bowel movements. It can relieve both constipation and diarrhea by balancing water absorption in the intestines.
Boosts Immune Health
Pumpkin contains vitamins A, C, and E, plus antioxidants and minerals like potassium and iron, supporting immune function, vision, and skin health.
Helps Maintain Healthy Weight
Fiber in pumpkin promotes a sense of fullness, making it a great low-calorie treat for pets on a diet.
Provides Hydration
With about 90% water content, pumpkin can help pets stay hydrated, especially those who drink little water.
When Pumpkn Isn’t Safe:
Not all pumpkin products are safe for consumption.
Pumpkin pie filling: Contains sugar, spices, and sometimes nutmeg, which are harmful to pets.
Raw pumpkin: Hard and difficult to digest.
Old or moldy pumpkins: Can contain bacteria or mold.
Large amounts: Too much fiber can cause diarrhea or a nutrient imbalance.
Easy Pumpkin Recipes for Pets:
Pumpkin Puree Mix
Dogs: 1-2 tablespoons mixed into regular food
Cats: 1 teaspoon mixed into wet food
Homemade Pumpkin Dog Biscuits
Ingredients:
1 cup pumpkin puree
2 eggs
2 ½ cups whole wheat or oat flour
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Mix ingredients to form a dough
Roll out and cut into fun shapes
Bake 25-30 minutes until firm
Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Frozen Pumpkin Treats
Mix equal parts plain and low-fat yogurt
Pour ice into cube trays
Freeze overnight for a cool treat
Pumpkin “Pup-cakes”
Ingredients:
1 cup oat flour
1 egg
½ cup pumpkin puree
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients and scoop into mini muffin tins
Bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes
Cool before serving
Top with unsweetened Greek yogurt for frosting
Pumpkin & Tuna Cat Bites
Ingredients:
½ cup canned tuna (in water)
¼ cup pumpkin puree
1 egg
1 tablespoon oat flour
Instructions:
Mix ingredients into a sticky dough
Form tiny balls or use a mini mold
Bake at 325°F for 10–12 minutes.
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Conclusion
Pumpkin can be a wonderful addition to your pet’s diet when prepared the right way, plain, pure, and in moderation. Its fiber, nutrients, and hydration benefits make it a go-to ingredient for healthy, happy pets. So next time you’re carving a pumpkin or stocking up on fall ingredients, remember, your pet can safely join the seasonal fun too.
SkyTails Connection
Our pets give us so much love, loyalty, and endless joy. While treats and toys bring happiness, true gratitude means ensuring they’re healthy, safe, and cared for at every stage of life. That’s why saving for your pet’s future is one of the best ways to say “thank you.” With a SkyTails Pet Savings Account, you can plan for vet visits, emergencies, or everyday comforts so your pet always gets the care they deserve, without the financial stress.
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