Home › Foods for cats › Pumpkin Seeds
Can Cats Eat Pumpkin Seeds?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Are pumpkin seeds safe for cats?
Pumpkin seeds are the edible seeds from inside a pumpkin, sometimes roasted and used as a treat or a home remedy. A few plain, unsalted, shelled pumpkin seeds are not toxic to cats, though they offer little to a meat-eating animal. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need pumpkin seeds. If you offer them at all, treat them as a rare, tiny extra.
How to serve pumpkin seeds to your cat
- Remove the outer shell, or use hulled seeds
- Offer them plain and unsalted, roasted with no oil or seasoning
- Grind or crush them for easier digestion, especially for small cats
What to avoid
- Salted or flavored pumpkin seeds
- Large amounts, which can cause an upset stomach
How many pumpkin seeds can my cat have?
Offer just a tiny taste, about a fingernail-sized piece, once in a while. Treats, including pumpkin seeds, should stay under about 10% of your cat's daily calories.
Signs your cat may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your cat has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can kittens eat pumpkin seeds?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding pumpkin seeds. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my cat ate too many pumpkin seeds?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your cat ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
How often can my cat have pumpkin seeds?
Treat them as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult cat, and less for small ones.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds?