Can cats eat ham?
It's best not to. Ham is fatty and high in salt, which can upset a cat's digestion and raise the risk of pancreatitis. Ham cooked with onion or garlic is toxic to cats. A University of Georgia vet recommends avoiding ham altogether.
Updated:
Why
Ham is a fatty meat that is also high in sodium, and both can cause health problems. Too much fat affects the digestive tract, especially the pancreas. Seasonings such as onion or garlic make it toxic. Small amounts may not be extremely harmful, but it is not a good treat. Salty food can also leave cats more dehydrated, and cats with kidney, heart or urinary problems should especially avoid ham.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Tummy upset
What to do
If your cat ate ham seasoned with onion or garlic, contact your vet right away. If she ate a lot of plain ham, or is vomiting or has diarrhoea, call your vet for advice.
Questions and answers
Is a tiny bite of ham dangerous?
Small amounts may not be extremely harmful, but ham seasoned with onion or garlic is toxic to cats, and a University of Georgia vet still recommends avoiding ham altogether.
Related foods
All foods: What can cats eat?Sources
- Clinical assistant professor advises against allowing cats to eat ham — UGA Today, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine (18 Apr 2025)
- Onion, Garlic, Chive, and Leek Poisoning in Cats — VCA Animal Hospitals (R. Schmid, DVM, DABT, for Pet Poison Helpline)
- Cats and human foods — Cats Protection
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic cat: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.