Can Cats Eat Pumpkin?

Yes, cats can eat plain pumpkin in small amounts. The ASPCA lists pumpkin as non-toxic to cats, and vets sometimes use it as fiber to help with constipation. Pumpkin pie, pie filling, and anything with spices or sugar is not a good choice, because some spices can make cats sick.

Is pumpkin safe for cats?

Plain pumpkin is not poisonous to cats. The ASPCA plant list for cats groups pumpkin with acorn squash and zucchini under plants that are non-toxic to cats.

Pumpkin is a small extra, not a meal. It should never replace your cat’s regular food.

Can pumpkin help a constipated cat?

It can, with your vet’s guidance. The Merck Veterinary Manual says fiber is a well-tolerated way to treat constipation in cats, and it lists pumpkin as one fiber option mixed into canned food. Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps the colon (the large bowel) push it along.

Cornell Feline Health Center describes canned pumpkin the same way. It also warns that too much soluble fiber can cause diarrhea. More is not better.

Constipation can be serious. Merck says to see a vet if it lasts, if your cat seems sick, or if it keeps coming back. Signs of a bigger problem include straining, being tired, not eating, and throwing up.

How do I serve pumpkin to my cat?

• Choose plain pumpkin: cooked and mashed, or canned pumpkin with only pumpkin in it.
• Check the label. “Pumpkin pie filling” is not the same as plain pumpkin.
• Add a small spoonful to your cat’s regular food.
• Make sure your cat has fresh water.
• Start small and watch how your cat’s stool looks.

Other kinds of pumpkin

Is canned pumpkin puree okay for cats?

Yes, if the can contains only pumpkin. Cornell and Merck both mention canned pumpkin as a fiber source for constipation. Check that no sugar or spices were added.

Can cats eat raw pumpkin?

Raw pumpkin is also a non-toxic plant for cats, according to the ASPCA. We did not find a vet source that compares raw and cooked pumpkin for cats. Cooked and mashed is the usual way to serve it, and it is easier to mix into food.

Can cats eat pumpkin pie?

No. Pumpkin pie is usually made with spices, and two of them are a problem for pets. The ASPCA says nutmeg can cause vomiting, agitation, a fast heart rate, trouble walking, and hallucinations in large amounts. It says larger amounts of cinnamon can irritate the throat and stomach and speed up the heart.

Can cats eat pumpkin seeds?

We could not find a veterinary source that says whether pumpkin seeds are good or bad for cats. Because of that, we can’t recommend them. Plain pumpkin flesh is the better choice. If you are curious about seeds, ask your vet.

Can cats eat whole pumpkins?

A pumpkin itself, like the ones used for fall decorations, is a non-toxic plant for cats. Eating plain pumpkin flesh is fine in small amounts. Don’t let your cat chew on carved or old pumpkins, because we have no source on the safety of those.

When should I skip pumpkin?

Skip it if your cat has loose stool that you don’t understand, or if your cat is sick. Call your vet instead. Constipation and other stomach problems can have causes that pumpkin will not fix.

Treats, including pumpkin, should stay a small part of what your cat eats. For other foods to avoid, see our guide to foods that are toxic to cats.