Meat & fish
Can cats eat ham?
Only a scrap. The salt content is high for a cat.
Why Salt and fat
If your cat 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 tiny piece.
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.
Can dogs eat ham?Cats In moderation
Only a scrap. The salt content is high for a cat.
How much: A tiny piece.
Safer treats your cat can have instead
Questions owners ask
Can cats eat ham?
Only a scrap. The salt content is high for a cat.
How much ham can a cat have?
A tiny piece.
What makes ham risky for cats?
Salt and fat.
What are the signs to watch for in cats?
vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst.
What should I do if my cat 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 dogs too?
Only a scrap. Ham is not toxic, but it is very salty and fatty and can trigger stomach upsets or pancreatitis.
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


