Top Health Benefits of Pumpkin for Pets

Did you know that cooked pumpkin can actually be good for your Dog and Cat?  This remarkable vegetable is a cost effective source of many a good nutrient to help keep your pet in good health and tip top shape.

Weight Loss

Pumpkin is low in calories so if your dog or cat needs to shed a kilo or two, replacing some of your pet's kibble or canned meal with some cooked, mashed pumpkin. It will fill their tummy without adding to their waistline. Most dogs like the taste of pumpkin so acceptace shouldn't be too much of a problem. Cats on the other hand, are fussier eaters, so you may need to mix in the small amount of pumpkin with their canned food to avoid them eating around it.

Full of Healthy Goodness

Pumpkin is loaded with essential nutrients such as Vitamins A,C and E as well as the B - complex group - Niacin, Folates, Vitamin B6 Thiamine and pantothenic acid. Its also rich in mineral like Calcium, Phosphorous, Potassium and Copper.

Digestive Upsets

Pumpkin is.a natural source of fibre. Cooked and mashed pumpking with no added salt can help settle down an upset stomach , improve digestion, reduce anal gland problems, prevent hairball build up and help both dogs and cats with constipation and diarrhoea.

Try cooking up a batch of pumpkin puree and freezing in individual portions which you can add to your pet's meal on a daily basis. A tablespoon or two (depending on your pet's size) is all you'll need on a regular basis for maintaining digestive health. There's no need to add any salt or flavourings as these are both unhealthy additives plus the pumpkin has a natural sweet flavour anyway which most dogs like.