Pumpkin: A Natural Remedy for Constipation and Diarrhea in Cats and Dogs
Find Out How to Treat Your Pet's Constipation and Diarrhea Health Issues Using Canned Pumpkin
My cat has kidney issues which makes her more prone to constipation. While experiencing one of her bouts of constipation I was prepared to take her into our veterinary clinic. When the vet's clinic didn't have any immediate openings, the vet tech suggested I give my cat canned pumpkin to relieve her symptoms.
I ran to the store, bought a can of pumpkin puree, and offered it to my cat. My cat ate the pumpkin which then resulted in a successful trip to the litter box. That seventy-nine cent can of pumpkin puree probably saved me a hundred dollars in vet bills.
Constipation is a common problem which often happens when a pet ingests too much grass, has issues with hairballs, or has swallowed small bones. Some pets just need more fiber in their diet, especially if they eat dry cat or dog food.
Pumpkin is a wonderful source of fiber and has high water content. If your pet is constipated, the fiber in the pumpkin will soften the stools. If your pet is experiencing diarrhea, the fiber in the pumpkin will absorb the water in your pet's digestive system which will help make the stools firmer.
The weight of your pet will determine how much pumpkin to give them. A pet which weighs less than fifteen pounds should be given 1-2 teaspoons of pumpkin puree. A 15-35 pound pet should receive 1-2 tablespoons, and a pet 35 pounds and up can be given 2-5 tablespoons of pumpkin puree. If you find your pet's stool becomes too runny, cut back on the amount of pumpkin.
My cats seem to have a brand preference when it comes to canned pumpkin. They didn't seem to care for Libby's Pumpkin Puree. They both loved the Festal canned pumpkin. One of my cats will only eat the pumpkin if I add a little warm water. Don't mistakenly purchase pumpkin pie filling which has spices and extra sugar added.
To keep the can of pumpkin puree from going bad, freeze individual portions in an ice cube tray. Once they are frozen, you can dump the cubes of pumpkin in a freezer bag and take them out as needed.
If your dog or cat has been suffering with constipation or diarrhea for more than 24-36 hours you should bring your pet to the veterinarian to check for intestinal blockages or parasites. Any pet who appears lethargic should immediately be checked by a veterinarian for the possibility of dehydration.
Source:
EarthClinic.com
Published by Julie Lind
Julie Lind is a piano teacher, mother, composer and a writer. View profile
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7 Comments
Post a CommentAmanda, cats are not humans and have different metabolisms. My cat just recently went to the vet for diarrhea and he recommended pumpkin puree. The fiber works differently in a cat and so far my kitty has been regular.
My healthy 18-year-old cat became constipated for a few days. I didn't want to put her through a vet visit unless necessary, so I started adding a small spoon of pumpkin to her moist food. She liked the taste, it got her going, and she seems perkier. Now she actually chooses the mixture over the plain food.
My cat has constipation and hard stools filled with fur stuck in her butt sometimes. The oily hairball remedy from pet store didn't work so I tried canned pumpkin. I went to local supermarket, but couldn't find any. Employee said there's a shortage of pumpkins this time of year so that's why there's no canned pumpkins (until September maybe). So I had to go to Whole Foods, and fortunately they had plenty (but cost about $3.00 each). My picky cat loved the pumpkin and licked right off my fingers. Within an hour she had bowel movements. I still have to monitor her, but I'm relieved she finally pooped after two days of no bowel movements. I just hope she doesn't fall madly in love with the expensive stuff..heheh. Thanks for article..very informative.
My daughter's 10 year old cat had chronic diarrhea with no known cause. I bought EVO cat food and he was diarrhea free for 3 days but then it came back. So then I gave him 1/2 tablespoon of pumpkin in his food and this coming Saturday it will be 3 weeks with NO diarrhea at all. I am still buying EVO cat food because I don't want to "rock the boat" right now - but later will try a less expensive food. I believe this cat has colitis.
Great article! I have cats and a dog, this is really good advice!
5 stars super article very helpful and a must bookmark read thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Never heard about pumpkin being used for that before. Thanks for sharing valuable information!