If there’s one pantry staple that consistently earns a spot in pet households, it’s pumpkin. Plain pumpkin (not pie filling) is a gentle, affordable, nutrient-rich food that can support digestion, stool quality, and even weight management for many dogs and cats.

Below is a practical guide to why pumpkin can help, when to use it, and how to serve it safely.

Why pumpkin is good for dogs and cats

1) Digestive support (the big one)

Pumpkin is packed with soluble fiber, which acts a bit like a “GI helper”:

  • If stools are loose: soluble fiber can absorb water and help firm things up.

  • If your pet is constipated: fiber can add bulk and help move things along.

That’s why many vets and pet pros recommend pumpkin as a first-line, gentle dietary add-on for minor tummy troubles.

2) Helps with anal gland issues in some dogs

For dogs that struggle with recurring anal gland discomfort, firmer, bulkier stools can help naturally express the glands during bowel movements. Pumpkin isn’t a guaranteed fix, but for some pups it can be a noticeable improvement.

3) Supports healthy weight management

Pumpkin is low in calories compared to many treats, but it helps pets feel satisfied because of the fiber and water content. For pets who always seem hungry, adding a small amount of pumpkin can help them feel fuller without adding a bunch of calories.

4) Nutrients that support whole-body health

Pumpkin contains helpful nutrients like:

  • Beta-carotene (vitamin A precursor) for skin/eye support

  • Vitamin C and E (antioxidants)

  • Potassium for normal muscle and nerve function
    It’s not meant to replace a balanced diet—but it’s a nice boost when used appropriately.

5) A great “food topper” for picky pets

Many dogs love pumpkin’s mild sweetness. Some cats enjoy it too (cats can be pickier), but even a small amount mixed into wet food can improve palatability and add hydration-friendly texture.

The most important rule: use plain pumpkin

When shopping, look for:
✅ “100% pumpkin” (canned) or cooked plain pumpkin you prepare at home
Avoid:
🚫 Pumpkin pie filling (it contains sugar, spices, and often other ingredients that don’t belong in pet bowls)

How much pumpkin should I give?

These are general starting points for plain pumpkin:

Dogs

  • Small dogs: 1–2 teaspoons daily

  • Medium dogs: 1–2 tablespoons daily

  • Large dogs: 2–4 tablespoons daily

Cats

  • Start tiny: 1/4–1 teaspoon daily mixed into wet food

Tip: Start low and increase slowly. Too much fiber too fast can cause gas, softer stool, or stomach upset.

Best ways to serve pumpkin

  • Mixed into wet food (great for cats and dogs)

  • Stirred into kibble with a splash of warm water

  • Frozen in lick mats or Kongs (dog enrichment!)

  • Pumpkin “pupsicles” (pumpkin + plain yogurt if your dog tolerates dairy)

When to be cautious

Pumpkin is generally safe, but consider these notes:

  • If your pet has diabetes, pumpkin can still be used sometimes, but talk to your vet about portion and frequency.

  • If your pet has kidney disease, potassium levels can matter—check with your vet first.

  • If vomiting, bloody stool, severe diarrhea, or lethargy is present, skip home fixes and call your vet.

Pumpkin doesn’t replace good nutrition—but it can be a smart helper

Think of pumpkin as a “supporting actor,” not the whole movie. It’s a simple add-on that can improve digestion and stool quality for many pets, and it’s especially handy during seasonal tummy upsets or when switching foods.