Vegetables
Can cats eat pumpkin?
Plain cooked or pure canned pumpkin is safe and often used for mild digestive issues.
Portion: 1–2 teaspoons mixed into food, up to once a day for a few days.
The short answer
Yes. Plain pumpkin (cooked fresh, or canned 100% pumpkin purée) is safe for cats, and vets sometimes suggest it for mild constipation or loose stools because of its soluble fibre. A teaspoon or two mixed into wet food is typical. Never use pumpkin pie filling: it's sweetened and spiced, and nutmeg in quantity is harmful.
Why the verdict
Pumpkin's soluble fibre absorbs water, adding bulk that can firm loose stools or ease mild constipation. It's low in calories and non-toxic. Pie filling adds sugar and spices such as nutmeg, which contains myristicin and can cause toxicity in large doses.
How to prepare it
- Canned 100% pure pumpkin, or fresh pumpkin cooked soft.
- Never pie filling.
- No salt, sugar, butter or spices.
- Remove skin, stringy pulp and raw seeds.
Signs of trouble
- Loose stool (too much)
- Gas
- Constipation or diarrhoea that lasts more than 48 hours (needs a vet, not more pumpkin)
Pumpkin & cats: FAQ
How much pumpkin should I give my cat for constipation?
About 1–2 teaspoons of pure canned pumpkin in wet food. If there's no stool within 48 hours, or your cat strains, see a vet.
Can cats eat pumpkin seeds?
Plain roasted, unsalted and ground seeds in tiny amounts aren't toxic, but they're fatty. Whole seeds can be a choking risk.
Can cats eat raw pumpkin?
It's hard to digest. Cooked or canned is better.
Related foods
See every food that’s toxic to cats →
Sources
- Cornell Feline Health Center — Feeding Your Cat (accessed 2026-09-29)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (accessed 2026-09-29)
Last updated 2026-09-29. We are not veterinarians: this guide summarises published veterinary references and is not a substitute for advice from your vet. See our methodology and disclaimer.