Can dogs and cats eat ham?

29 May 2023
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding your pet’s care, treatment, or medical conditions.

Can dogs eat ham?

Ham is a popular food item that many dog owners give to their pets as a treat or reward. However, it is not safe for dogs to eat ham due to various reasons. Ham is high in sodium and fat content which can cause health problems like obesity, heart disease and high blood pressure in dogs. Consuming too much salt can also lead to dehydration and kidney problems.

Ham also contains nitrates which are used as preservatives. These chemicals have been linked with cancer development in humans and animals alike. While the amount of nitrate present in ham may not be enough to immediately harm your pet, consuming it regularly over time could pose long term risks.

Moreover, some hams contain bones which pose a choking hazard for dogs or they might swallow small pieces of bone leading them to digestive issues including constipation or blockages.

In short, feeding your dog ham should be avoided since the negative effects outweigh any benefits derived from this so-called treat. Instead, there are plenty of other healthier options available such as lean meats like chicken breast or carrots that you can use as healthy treats for your furry friend without risking their health unnecessarily.

If your pet requires veterinary care due to something they ate, dog insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.

Can cats eat ham?

Ham is a popular meaty treat for humans, but it is definitely not safe for cats to eat. There are several reasons why ham should be avoided when feeding your feline friend. Firstly, ham contains high levels of salt which can cause dehydration and lead to serious health problems in cats. The excessive sodium content can also increase the risk of developing heart disease or high blood pressure.

Another reason why ham is unsafe for cats to consume is that it often contains preservatives and additives such as nitrates and nitrites. These chemicals have been linked to cancer in both animals and humans, so it's best to avoid them altogether.

Additionally, ham can be difficult for cats to digest due to its tough texture and high fat content. This can result in stomach upset, diarrhoea or vomiting - all unpleasant experiences for both you and your cat.

In conclusion, while it may seem tempting to share your delicious slice of ham with your furry companion, please resist the urge! Instead stick with commercially available cat food designed specifically for their needs – after all they deserve only the best!

If your pet requires veterinary care due to something they ate, cat insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.

Information purposes only

The suggestions offered here are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for pet-specific advice from your veterinarian. Never disregard your vet’s recommendations, or delay in acting on them, based on something you have read on this site. Regardless of how a food is rated here, any food that you give your pet can pose potential health risks, including allergic reactions, choking, or other health conditions such as bloat. Always monitor your pet while they’re eating, and never introduce a new food into your pet’s diet without first consulting your veterinarian. 

Pet poison emergency protocol

If your pet is acting sick, call your regular veterinarian immediately. If your regular veterinarian is closed, call a nearby on-call veterinarian, animal urgent care, or veterinary emergency hospital. If your pet is not acting sick but you think they may have been exposed to a poison, call the Animal Poison Line (01202 50 9000).

Food safety statuses

Safe

Could be given almost daily without harm

Safe in moderation

Not toxic, but should not be given regularly

Unsafe

Toxic or simply too risky to give to your pet