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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