Holiday season is upon us! First up, is Halloween and everything pumpkin. As with other holidays, some of what we humans enjoy can be dangerous for our furry family members. Just Google ‘pets and Halloween’ and a number of organizations have helpful information. Here is the address for ASPCA’s page: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/halloween-safety-tips.
Now back to everything pumpkin. Pumpkin is great for dogs and cats. It is rich in nutrients such as vitamin A for eye health, vitamins C and E boost the immune system, zinc supports skin and coat health, potassium helps regulate urinary pH, the combination of soluble and insoluble fibers aid in digestion and reduce hairballs in cats, and cucurbitacin may help to prevent parasitic infestations (worms). Besides tasting great, pumpkin keeps pets feeling fuller for longer (helping with weight loss) and is hydrating.
Ready to make some delicious treats for your fur babies?!? Sure, you could just buy them, but there are simple recipes to avoid packaged/processed foods. Here are just a few of the many available online:
Healthy Pumpkin Puppuccinos can be made in just 5 minutes with only 5 ingredients and ice. From https://damndelicious.net/2015/09/15/healthy-pumpkin-puppuccinos/.
No Bake Pumpkin Dog Treats from https://www.sizzlingeats.com/no-bake-pumpkin-dog-treats/#wprm-recipe-container-6755
Tuna and Pumpkin Cat Treats from https://www.catster.com/nutrition/tuna-pumpkin-cat-treats/
Have a great October and stay tuned for Turkey Treats in November!