According to the popular pet resource, 1-800-PetMeds, if you have a pet, you probably already know that minor tummy aches can be a common occurrence in pets

It’s no fun for a fur baby to have an upset stomach, but what can you do when you notice that your dog or cat diarrhea or is straining to pass stool?

If the distress is minor, a healthy, natural treatment may already be in your own pantry.

Surprisingly, plain, unsweetened cooked pumpkin can help with both diarrhea and constipation. You can give your dog or cat plain canned, puréed pumpkin or fresh, cooked pumpkin. Start with 1/2 teaspoons and increase up to 2 Tablespoons, depending on the size of the dog and the tolerance and effectiveness.

As always, it is best to consult your own vet.

Be sure not to use pumpkin pie filling which has added sugar and spices.