Best known for its use as Halloween jack-o-lanterns or Thanksgiving pie filling, the pumpkin is a fruit that belongs to the same family as melons and cucumbers.
All parts of the pumpkin have nutritional value, including the leaves and rinds, which contain protein and fiber and are often used medicinally.
Here are 10 ways pumpkin can benefit your pet:
Pumpkin seeds are a great source of protein, carbohydrates and fiber. Roast the seeds and then grind them up. Do not add salt.
Pumpkin flesh contains soluble fiber, which helps slows digestion, and can help manage diarrhea by absorbing water.
Alternatively, pumpkin also helps with constipation due to its high fiber and water content.
Pumpkin is great for “bulking up” your animal’s food. Most animals don’t require large quantities of pumpkin, and at only 34 calories per 100 grams, the benefits far outweigh the few extra calories.
Pumpkin flesh contains vitamin A, which is important for vision health.
The flesh also contains vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.
Dogs with joint problems need more vitamin C than they produce naturally, and pumpkin is a good source.
Since pumpkin slows digestion, it also helps with weight loss, since your pet will feel fuller for longer.
Pumpkin slows the aging process with its bountiful antioxidant beta-carotene.
The zinc in pumpkin will help improve skin and coat.