Pet parents often ask if it’s safe for their cat to eat pumpkin. Here’s what you need to know about sharing this seasonal squash with your cat, from potential benefits to how to feed it safely.

Can Cats Eat Pumpkin?

Plain 100% pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is safe for cats. It can even help with your cat’s digestion and gut health. Pumpkin has healthy nutrients like potassium, phosphorus, calcium, vitamins A, C, and K, plus lots of fiber.

But remember: cats are obligate carnivores. Foods like pumpkin should only be given in small amounts.

Can Cats Eat Pumpkin Seeds?

Pumpkin seeds are not toxic to cats, but they can be a choking risk, especially if your cat eats too fast. Eating too many seeds can also cause an intestinal blockage.

If you give pumpkin seeds, keep these rules in mind:

• Feed only a small amount and stay nearby.

• Do not add salt, spices, oil, or roast them in fat.

• Seeds can be given with or without shells, but crushing or mashing them is safest.

Is Pumpkin Good for Constipated Cats?

Yes. One of the main reasons vets recommend pumpkin is to help cats with constipation. The water and fiber in pumpkin can make it easier for cats to pass stool.

Many cats get relief with 2–4 teaspoons of canned pumpkin mixed into canned cat food for mild constipation.

Canned cat food is also good for constipated cats because it adds more water to their diet. Together with pumpkin, this extra water and fiber can be an important part of treating constipation.

Is Pumpkin Good for Cats With Diarrhea?

Yes. Pumpkin can sometimes help cats with diarrhea as well as constipation. The fiber in pumpkin adds bulk to the stool, which can make loose stools more solid.

But be careful — giving your cat too much pumpkin can cause diarrhea instead of helping.

Can Cats Eat Pumpkin Pie?

No. Pumpkin pie is a processed food and often contains spices that are not safe for cats.

Pumpkin pie and canned pumpkin pie filling may have ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice. These can upset your cat’s stomach and may even be mildly toxic.

Always give cats plain, 100% pumpkin only — never pumpkin pie or pie filling.

How to Feed Your Cat Pumpkin Safely

If your cat enjoys pumpkin, give only a small amount of cooked, plain pumpkin with no spices. You can cook fresh pumpkin yourself or use canned 100% pumpkin (make sure nothing else is added).

Both pie pumpkins and carving pumpkins are safe, though most canned pumpkin is made from pie pumpkins.

Some cats will eat pumpkin alone. Others prefer it mixed into canned cat food. A safe amount is usually 2–3 tablespoons.

Pumpkin can be a helpful addition for cats with digestive issues, especially mild, ongoing constipation.

References

https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/what-human-grade-cat-food

Dr. Sandra Mitchell