Meat & fish
Can dogs eat ham?
Only a scrap. Ham is not toxic, but it is very salty and fatty and can trigger stomach upsets or pancreatitis.
Why Salt and fat
If your dog ate some
- A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset.
- Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Excessive thirst
How much, how often
A small piece now and then.
Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of the day’s calories. Work out your pet’s calories
Serving it safely
- Choose lean, unsmoked meat instead
- No bones
Dogs and cats, side by side
Dogs In moderation
Only a scrap. Ham is not toxic, but it is very salty and fatty and can trigger stomach upsets or pancreatitis.
How much: A small piece now and then.
Cats In moderation
Only a scrap. The salt content is high for a cat.
How much: A tiny piece.
Can cats eat ham?Safer treats your dog can have instead
Questions owners ask
Can dogs eat ham?
Only a scrap. Ham is not toxic, but it is very salty and fatty and can trigger stomach upsets or pancreatitis.
How much ham can a dog have?
A small piece now and then.
What makes ham risky for dogs?
Salt and fat.
What are the signs to watch for in dogs?
vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst.
What should I do if my dog ate ham?
A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.
Is ham safe for cats too?
Only a scrap. The salt content is high for a cat.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts