Can dogs or cats eat corned beef?

October 4, 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 corned beef?

Corned beef typically makes a big appearance at St. Patty's, but hey, if you like to eat it more often, we get it. It's tasty.

So can your dog have some? Unluckily, nope. It's just too risky. Corned beef contains high levels of sodium nitrate, which can lead to excessive salt intake in dogs. Excessive salt consumption can result in dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Corned beef also contains large amounts of fat that could lead to pancreatitis if consumed regularly. Yikes!

As always, before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet, consult with your veterinarian first! If your dog eats corned beef (or any food) and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, pet insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.

Can cats eat corned beef?

Hold off on sharing that corned beef with your kitty, even if they're giving you their sweetest begging meows.

Corned beef typically contains high levels of sodium, which aren't good for cats. Additionally, corned beef recipes usually contain other tasty human ingredients that are toxic to felines. For example, garlic and onion powder are often added, which can cause health issues in cats.

As always, before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet, consult with your veterinarian first! If your cat eats corned beef (or any food) and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, pet insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.

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