Many pet parents love indulging their four-legged friends with the occasional table scrap or two. Hey, they're part of the family, after all! You may wonder whether your cat can have a piece of ham from your meal and if it's safe. Unfortunately, sharing isn't necessarily caring when it comes to feeding your cat from your plate. While you may be doing their tastebuds a favor, certain foods simply aren't safe for felines to eat. Beyond just causing serious stomach upset, the wrong foods can actually be poisonous to cats.
Stick with High-Quality, Unprocessed Proteins
If you're looking to give your cat a taste of human food, it is recommended to feed them high-quality, cooked, unprocessed proteins like chicken, duck, and turkey. However, when it comes to ham, it is not the best choice for your feline friend. Deli meat, including ham, is typically filled with salt and additives that are tough on cats' bodies.
While it is not recommended to feed your cat ham, if they happen to snag a small bite off your plate when you aren't looking, there's no need to panic. Just make sure it is only a small amount and monitor your cat for any signs of discomfort or illness.
Keep Portions Small
Just like humans, cats can easily gain weight if their diet lacks portion control. It is important to maintain their caloric intake within a healthy range. According to Dr. Gary J. Kubala, VMD, of Littlestown Veterinary Hospital, cats only need 200 to 300 calories per day to stay healthy. Therefore, even a small treat like ham can quickly add up in calories for your pet.
To prevent unnecessary weight gain and potential gastrointestinal upset, it is recommended to stick to feeding your cat less than a teaspoon of treats. This ensures that they receive a small indulgence without compromising their overall health.
Know What Foods To Avoid
In addition to processed deli meat like ham, there are several other food items that are toxic to cats. It is important to be aware of these foods and keep them out of your cat's reach. Some common foods that are poisonous to cats include:
- Chocolate and chocolate-based products
- Onions, leeks, garlic, and chives
- Macadamia nuts
- Raisins, grapes, and currants
- Products sweetened with xylitol
- Alcoholic beverages
- Unbaked bread dough
It is also important to keep raw meat and bones away from your cat. Raw meat carries a risk of exposure to salmonella and E. coli, which could make your pet sick. Additionally, bones can splinter and cause injury to your cat.
If you suspect that your cat has ingested any of these harmful foods, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control hotline immediately to report your pet's symptoms.
Know What Foods Are Safe
While there are many foods that are off-limits for cats, there are also some human foods that can be given to them as an occasional treat with your veterinarian's permission. These cat-friendly foods include:
- Cooked eggs
- Baked bread
- Cooked broccoli
- Apples
- Blueberries
- Bananas
- Watermelon
- Plain, cooked, unprocessed boneless meats like chicken, turkey, and beef (in small amounts)
It is important to note that even these safe foods should still be given in moderation. Always consult with your vet to ensure that your cat's diet is balanced and appropriate for their health needs.
The bottom line is that just because a food tastes great to you, it doesn't mean it's safe to share with your furry friend. When it comes to ham, it is best to avoid giving it to your cat due to its high salt and additive content. Instead, opt for high-quality, unprocessed proteins that are safe for feline consumption.
If you are unsure about whether a particular food is safe for your cat, it is always best to double-check with your veterinarian. They can provide you with expert advice and guidance to ensure that your cat can enjoy treats without any health complications.
If you want to know other articles similar to Can cats have smoked ham? what you need to know you can visit the Pet nutrition category.
Related Articles