Health Benefits of Pumpkin for Pets

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP
www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Will you be including pumpkin treats in your Thanksgiving dinner plans?  You can include your pet too!  Canned natural pumpkin, pumpkin seeds, and freshly cooked pumpkin can have many health benefits for both cats and dogs.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin:

• Aids in Digestive Health - Pureed pumpkin is high in fiber.  In small quantities (about a table spoon) you can help keep your pets regular and help with indigestion or upset stomachs.
• Improve Urinary Health - Pumpkin seeds are high in fatty acids and antioxidants that help support a healthy urinary system.
• Reduce Risk of Cancer - Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of vitamins, including vitamin A, beta-carotene, iron and potassium.  This can reduce the likelihood of cancer and keep your pet healthy longer.
• Aid in Weight Loss - If you have a pet that is struggling with weight loss, try including a small portion of canned pumpkin in their diet.  This will help them feel full longer!

If you do plan on serving your pet any pumpkin treats, be sure that the pumpkin is unsweetened (not pie filling).

Learn more about the health benefits of pumpkins here and feel free to contact any of our Brooklyn or Long Island offices for more information on what your pet can and cannot eat.

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Should You Add Pumpkin To Your Pet's Diet?

 THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

It's pumpkin season!  While you and your family indulge in festive drinks and treats, don't forget about your pets.  In moderation, canned pumpkin can be a healthy addition to your cat or dog's diet.

Pumpkin Health Benefits:

• Urinary Tract - The oils contained in the seeds and flesh of pumpkins help pets who suffer from kidney and bladder stones.
• Digestion - Pumpkin is a great source of fiber.  This helps pets who need to reach a healthy weight, as well as those who suffer from diarrhea and constipation.  Fiber is an important part of your cat's diet, especially in geriatric years.
• Furballs - Instead of hacking up furballs, adding a very small amount of pumpkin to your cat's diet (about a teaspoon a day), will help move furballs along through the digestive tract and into the litter box.
• Overall Nutrition - Pumpkin flesh and seeds are filled with vitamins and minerals that are good for your pet.  They help your pet stay healthy and even aid in weight loss.

While canned and cooked pumpkin are a healthy addition to your pet's diet, you shouldn't let your cat or dog eat raw pumpkin.  Read this article for more information on the health benefits of pumpkin and how you can safely prepare it for your pet.  If you aren't sure how your cat or dog will react to a change in diet, contact our office.  We are happy to answer any questions you have about how you can keep your pet healthy throughout the fall season!

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