With Autumn being pumpkin season, did you know pumpkins play a surprisingly big role in the animal world? From farm animals to wildlife and even pets, pumpkins are more than just a festive treat—they’re nutritious, fun, and sometimes downright fascinating! In honor of National Pumpkin Day on October 26^th, here are some facts about pumpkins and their role in the animal world.

1. Pumpkins Are a Healthy Snack for Many Animals

Pumpkins are packed with vitamins A, C, and E, fiber, and antioxidants. Many animals love them, and they’re good for digestive health:

• Dogs: Pumpkin can help regulate digestion, ease constipation, and even help with diarrhea. A spoonful of plain cooked pumpkin is a simple treat.
• Cats: Some cats enjoy small amounts of cooked pumpkin mixed with their food. Avoid the seeds and stems as they may be harmful to cats.
• Horses: Horses can safely enjoy pumpkin in moderation, providing a sweet, low-calorie treat.
• Cows & Sheep: Farmers sometimes feed leftover pumpkin to cows and sheep. It’s a nutritious supplement during fall when grazing may be limited.
• Goats: Goats can’t resist the sweet taste and often eat pumpkins whole!

2. Pumpkin Seeds Are a Super Snack

The seeds inside a pumpkin are a nutritional powerhouse for animals:

• Rich in protein and healthy fats.
• Can be fed to birds, chickens, and even small pets like hamsters.
• Fun tip: Roast seeds for a crunchy treat, but make sure they’re plain—no salt or spices!

3. Pumpkins Can Be a Play Toy
For some animals, pumpkins aren’t just food—they’re toys:

• Pigs: Love pushing and rolling pumpkins around, which is a great way to enrich their environment.
• Goats & Sheep: Knocking pumpkins over provides both exercise and entertainment.
• Dogs: A frozen pumpkin can serve as a long-lasting chew and brain teaser.
• Chickens: Chickens love to carve their own pumpkin! Give them a slight start outline and come back the next day to their own jack-o-lantern!

So, after this, know pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween and decorations – animals love them too! Whether as a snack, enrichment, or natural treat in the wild, fall wouldn’t be the same without them. This  autumn, consider sharing some pumpkin love with your pets or farm animals. It’s healthy, fun, and totally festive! If you don't have an animal to give your pumpkin to, reach out to a farm to see if they would want them for their animals.

O’Brien, A. (2025, October 21). What to Do With Leftover Pumpkins on the Farm. Hobby Farms. https://www.hobbyfarms.com/pumpkins-leftover-livestock-feed/

Vetnique Labs. (2025, July 10). 8 Benefits of Pumpkin and Pumpkin Seed for Pets. https://vetnique.com/blogs/vets-corner/8-benefits-of-pumpkin-and-pumpkin-seed-for-pets?srsltid=AfmBOorGW0RHujCfNMcab5pT-iiqCbrq5zX1olQpBdrAScX9F1h0IcyK

PetsCareCom Inc. (n.d.). Are pumpkin seeds a dewormer for dogs? Facts revealed. https://www.petscare.com/news/faq/are-pumpkin-seeds-a-dewormer-for-dogs

Cascade Veterinary Clinics. (2023). The Superfood Solution: Why cats and dogs should enjoy pumpkin this fall. https://www.cascadevetclinics.com/services/other/blog/superfood-solution-why-cats-and-dogs-should-enjoy-pumpkin-fall