Can cats eat ham?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
High salt and fat content can upset the stomach and is not good for cats.
Why
Ham is too salty for cats and best avoided.
Can cats eat ham, and why?
Ham is too salty for cats and best avoided. High salt and fat content can upset the stomach and is not good for cats.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
Warning — what to watch for
High salt and fat content can upset the stomach and is not good for cats.
If your cat has eaten ham, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
More foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat ham?
Caution. Ham is too salty for cats and best avoided.
What happens if my cat eats ham?
High salt and fat content can upset the stomach and is not good for cats. If your cat has eaten ham, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is ham poisonous to cats?
Caution. Ham is too salty for cats and best avoided.
Check ham for another pet