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Can Cats Eat Pumpkin?
Pumpkin is safe for cats when served plain and in a sensible amount.
Is pumpkin safe for cats?
Plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling) is a popular home remedy vets recommend for pets with mild digestive upset. Plain, cooked or canned pumpkin (not pie filling) is safe for cats in small amounts and can help with mild digestive upset. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need pumpkin. If you offer it at all, treat it as a rare, tiny extra.
How to serve pumpkin to your cat
- Use plain canned pumpkin or home-cooked pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling
- Start with a small spoonful mixed into food
- Ask your vet for the right amount if using it for an upset stomach
What to avoid
- Pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices
- Raw pumpkin skin and stem, which are tough to digest
- Large amounts, which can cause loose stools
How much pumpkin can my cat have?
Offer just a tiny taste, about a fingernail-sized piece, once in a while. Treats, including pumpkin, 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?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding pumpkin. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my cat ate too much pumpkin?
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?
Treat it 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?