How to Feed Ham Shank to a Cat

Holiday hams usually end up providing plenty of leftovers. Leftovers are often given to guests to take home, used for sandwiches or even for feeding pets. The only problem is that pure ham is a little more potent with protein and sodium than what is normally in a pet's foods. Cats can be very sensitive to too much protein, salt and fat, which could cause their stomach to hurt, or even cause kidney issues. If you choose to feed your cat ham shank, do so only in moderation.

Things You'll Need

  • Knife
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut away all excess fat from the ham. Fat is not good for your cat's kidneys. This includes the skin around the outside of the ham shank.

    • 2

      Make sure that the ham you are going to use for your cat is completely cooked through. Pork can be dangerous if it not cooked all the way through.

    • 3

      Cut the ham into small cube-like pieces. Make the pieces small enough that the cat will be able to put the pieces of ham into its mouth.

    • 4

      Put the pieces in a storage bag or plastic container in the refrigerator until feeding time, or if your would like to give your cat a treat. Do not feed the cat the ham from the table or the cat will learn to beg.

    • 5

      Feed the cat just a few small cubes of ham shank with its food or as a treat a few times a week. Anymore may make your cat's stomach hurt.