Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Is pumpkin safe for cat constipation? Worried about Vitamin A buildup.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | RagaMuffin | Male | neutered | 14 lbs

My cat probably 13 year old cat "Buddy" has constipation. I give him about one teaspoon or so of pumpkin puree every other day and it works. My question is there is a lot of vitamin A in pumpkin and I am concerned that he will have medical problems from consuming this as vitamin A builds up in the system. I don't think most vets think about the toxic possibilities as some say he can have an unlimited amount. I know from my own experience as my skin has turned yellow fro eating too much broccoli

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 4th, 2017

1-2 tsp of pumpkin (not the pie filling) given once daily does not pose any toxicity concerns for cats. You are ok to continue giving this. Vitamin A toxicity has been documented as being caused mainly by the consumption of liver cod oils or raw liver. Pumpkin does not have a substantial amount of Vit A in it to cause any health concerns in cats, because it takes >300,000 ug retinol/kg diet to cause toxicity concerns.
Here is a website link as well that discusses other foods your pet should avoid.
https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/people-foods-pets-should-never-eat

I hope this was helpful. Best wishes and take care.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I understand your concern. Even though there is vitamin A in pumpkin, a kitty can still eat a lot of it without having the vitamin A build up in their system more than usual as they will excrete the excess after getting what the body needs. If pumpkin seems to help Buddy, you can continue giving it. Good luck and have a great day!

    Vote Icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button