Pumpkin Power: Why Cats & Dogs Can Benefit

As autumn rolls in, pumpkin pops up everywhere — from lattes to lanterns. But did you know it’s not just a seasonal treat for humans? Pumpkin is one of the few human foods that’s genuinely beneficial for both cats and dogs.

Naturally rich in fibre, antioxidants, and gentle nutrients, pumpkin can help support your pet’s digestion, immunity, and even skin health. Here’s why vets often call it a “functional superfood” for pets — and how to use it safely.

1. Natural Digestive Support

Pumpkin is most famous for its gentle impact on digestion. Its soluble fibre helps absorb excess water in the intestines — ideal for easing both diarrhoea and constipation.

For dogs, pumpkin acts like a mild prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. For cats, it helps regulate hairball issues and stool consistency. The fibre works by creating a gel-like substance that soothes and stabilises the digestive tract.

2. Rich in Beta-Carotene & Antioxidants

The bright orange colour of pumpkin comes from beta-carotene — a powerful antioxidant and a precursor to vitamin A, essential for eye, skin, and immune health. In both cats and dogs, vitamin A helps maintain healthy mucous membranes and supports immune resilience — particularly important during the colder months when infections and skin dryness are more common.

Beta-carotene also works with vitamin E to reduce oxidative stress — helping protect cells from inflammation and early ageing.

3. A Gentle Weight-Management Helper

Because pumpkin is low in calories but high in fibre, it’s an excellent addition for pets that need to manage their weight. It creates a sense of fullness while improving nutrient absorption. Replacing a small portion of your pet’s usual meal with plain pumpkin puree can reduce calorie intake without leaving them feeling hungry.

4. Immune & Skin Support (Perfect for Autumn & Winter)

As the seasons shift and temperatures drop, pets often experience drier skin and weaker immune defences. Pumpkin’s combination of beta-carotene, zinc, and vitamins C and E supports immune cells and skin integrity from within. Zinc, in particular, helps repair skin tissue and keeps coats shiny, while vitamin C supports collagen and defends against free radicals.

In simple terms — a little pumpkin each week can help your pet stay glowing, healthy, and resilient through the colder months.

5. How to Feed Pumpkin Safely

The safest form is plain, cooked pumpkin (or 100% pure canned pumpkin with no sugar, salt, or spices). Avoid pumpkin pie filling or seasoned products. Serve in moderation — too much fibre can lead to loose stools.

• For cats: 1–2 teaspoons mixed into wet food.
• For small dogs: 1 teaspoon daily.
• For medium to large dogs: 1–3 tablespoons daily.

You can also freeze small cubes of cooked pumpkin as easy meal toppers or enrichment treats. They’re gentle on digestion and packed with nutrients — a simple way to bring seasonal goodness into your pet’s bowl.

6. The Bottom Line

Pumpkin is one of nature’s simplest (and safest) nutrition boosters for both cats and dogs. It’s gentle, packed with nutrients, and supports the two things every pet needs more of during autumn and winter — gut health and immune balance.

Whether mixed into their meals or served as an occasional treat, pumpkin is an easy way to help your pet stay healthy, comfortable, and glowing through the colder months. 🎃