Can Cats Eat Ham? Salt, Fat and Why It Is Not a Great Treat
Ham is the meat that appears on the holiday table and the sandwich plate, and cats often show strong interest. Cats are carnivores, so it seems natural to share. But not all meat is equal, and processed meat like ham is among the less suitable choices.
Is ham safe for cats?
Plain ham is not strictly poisonous, and cats can digest meat. The problem is what ham contains. Ham is cured, which means it is loaded with salt, and it often contains sugar, nitrates, spices and glazes. It is also fatty. A tiny nibble is unlikely to cause harm, but ham should not be a regular part of a cat's diet. See can cats eat bacon for a similar case.
Why ham is a poor choice
Sodium. Cats need only a little sodium. Large amounts can cause excess thirst, vomiting, diarrhea and, in severe cases, sodium ion poisoning, with tremors and seizures. Cats with heart or kidney disease are especially at risk. See chronic kidney disease in cats.
Fat. Rich, fatty foods can upset the stomach and may contribute to pancreatitis in susceptible cats. See pancreatitis in cats.
Preservatives and nitrates. Processed meats contain additives that are not ideal for pets.
Sugar and glazes. Honey, brown sugar and fruit glazes add sugar. See how to help an overweight cat lose weight.
Spices and seasonings. Many hams are flavored with garlic or onion, which are toxic to cats. See are onions and garlic toxic to cats.
Bones. Ham bones can splinter and cause injury or blockage. See can cats eat bones.
Raw or undercooked ham. Risk of bacteria and parasites. See can cats eat raw meat.
Types of ham
- Plain cooked ham. A tiny amount is the least risky.
- Deli and lunch meat. Very salty and often contains preservatives.
- Honey-baked or glazed. Sugary.
- Smoked or cured country ham. Extremely salty.
- Ham with bone. Avoid bones.
- Canned ham. High in sodium.
What if my cat ate ham?
If it was a small piece, watch your cat. If it ate a large amount, glazed or seasoned ham, or ham with bone, monitor for:
- Vomiting or diarrhea. See cat vomiting causes and diarrhea in cats.
- Excessive thirst or urination
- Lethargy or weakness
- Tremors or seizures
- Abdominal pain
Call your vet or an animal poison control service if signs occur. See cat poisoning what to do.
Healthier meat treats
Cats do best with lean, plain, cooked meats. See can cats eat chicken and can cats eat turkey. Freeze-dried meat treats made for cats are another option. See healthy cat treats.
Begging and holiday tables
Cats may beg at mealtime. Do not reward it. Offer a cat treat instead, and keep scraps out of reach. During holidays, tell guests not to feed the cat. See holiday hazards for cats.
Portions
Treats should be under about ten percent of daily calories. See how much should I feed my cat.
Kittens and seniors
Kittens need a complete kitten diet. See kitten feeding schedule. Older cats with health issues should avoid salty foods. See best food for senior cats.
Ham and heart or kidney disease
Cats with heart or kidney disease are often advised to eat low-sodium diets. A piece of ham can contain far more salt than such a cat should have, and the extra sodium can worsen fluid retention and blood pressure. If your cat has a medical condition, ask your vet before giving any human food.
Ham bones and holiday leftovers
Ham bones are tempting, but cooked bones can splinter, and fat trimmings can trigger vomiting or pancreatitis. After a holiday meal, take the bones and scraps out in a sealed bag, and use a bin with a lid. Cats are good at raiding trash, so secure it.
What a meat treat should look like
A good meat treat is lean, plain, cooked and cut small. Chicken breast, turkey and cooked lean beef without salt or seasoning are better choices than cured or processed meat. Freeze-dried single-ingredient treats are convenient and tend to be unseasoned.
When to see a vet
Contact your vet if your cat has repeated vomiting, lethargy or signs of illness after eating ham. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Is ham bad for cats?
In small amounts it is unlikely to harm a healthy cat, but regular ham is unhealthy because of sodium and fat.
Can cats eat deli ham?
Best avoided. Deli meats are very salty and contain preservatives.
What if my cat ate a lot of ham?
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and extreme thirst, and call your vet.
Is ham better than bacon?
Slightly lower in fat, but both are salty and processed.
Sources and further reading
Pet food rules and nutrient standards come from regulators and professional bodies. Start here when you want the primary source.
- ASPCA: people foods to avoid feeding your petsWhich common kitchen foods are unsafe for dogs and cats.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control CenterToxic plants and foods lists, plus a 24-hour helpline.
- Pet Poison Helpline24-hour poison advice staffed by veterinary toxicologists.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.
This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.