This Fall while throwing together some of your favorite pumpkin pie recipes, or making plans for pumpkin carving, here’s some food for thought….
Pumpkins are said to be a kind of superfood, with great health benefits.for both you and your pet.
Yes, pumpkin, when given correctly, is very safe for pets.
That being said, you also want to remember that whenever adding something new to your pets diet, it is always best to introduce it in small amounts…..
Team up with your veterinarian to know how much would be good for your pet, and if it’s beneficial with any condition your pet may currently have. Remember, a good balanced diet is key to good health. Too much of anything is never good. And NEVER give leftover Halloween pumpkin that was left out, as it may contain mold and or bacteria. Always give fresh cooked pumpkin or canned organic (with no sugar, spice, or additives) Canned is always easier with less mess, but not canned pumpkin pie filling as it may have added sweeteners.
Aside from adding moisture to a dry diet, pumpkins are a great source of vitamins and fiber that can be added to your pets diet.
Rich in vitamins A and C. Vitamin A which is good for healthy vision, and Vitamin C for source of antioxidants and supporting the immune system. It’s also rich in Beta Carotene that can help aid in the prevention of disease and infections.
Pumpkin is a great source of fiber which can be beneficial in many ways.
Adding pumpkin to a diet can help remedy diarrhea. Fiber we know, is good for the digestive system, and can help keep your pet regular, assisting with both diarrhea and constipation. This can be very useful when getting rid of diarrhea. You can also add a little yogurt if needed to give it a boost.
The Extra fiber in your pets diet can also help if needing to lose weight, making them feel a little more full.
Pumpkin adds zinc for a healthier skin and coat, as well as potassium which is said to be good for electrolytes, muscular contraction, and overall muscular function. Great for maintaining good health.
A super food indeed!
Did you know that even ground pumpkin seeds can be a natural remedy for parasites?
Cucurbitin, an amino acid found in pumpkin seeds is known to help with the deworming of tapeworms and roundworms in dogs and cats.
Pulling seeds from a pumpkin can be very sticky and messy. After pulling them, you will need to dry them in the oven so they can easily be placed in a coffee grinder to be ground. Seeds must be raw, no salt or additives. Give 1-2 teaspoons of ground pumpkin seed per day until stools are clean. For small dogs 1/4 teaspoon per 10 lbs.
Always give roasted and unsalted seeds.
And make sure to store your pumpkin seeds properly in a sealed bag and refrigerate, as they can go bad and become toxic.
If choosing to give whole seeds they must be given one at a time, or just a few in one sitting.
It is said the oil in pumpkin seeds, as well as antioxidants and fatty acids, can also help aid in urinary tract health. By promoting urinary health and the prevention of urinary tract infections.
Now that you know a little more about pumpkin, you might be wondering how you might go about introducing it to your dog or cat.
Some pets may like the taste, others may not. Try adding a spoonful or two to their regular meals, or mixed with canned food. You might even be able to buy canned pet food that has pumpkin in it.
Or if you’re good at baking….
Try mixing it with peanut butter and roll out some peanut butter pumpkin cookies.
And just to keep things fun and festive, here are some great ideas to either spook up your front door, or just get a little critter creative with your pumpkin this Halloween…