Ham is cured pork from the hind leg, sold as deli slices, boneless roasts, spiral holiday hams, and canned products. It is usually preserved with salt and sometimes smoke or curing additives, which makes it much saltier than fresh pork. Ham is commonly served in sandwiches, breakfast plates, soups, and holiday meals.
Many recipes glaze ham with brown sugar, honey, maple, mustard, or spice rubs during baking. Deli ham and packaged slices may also include preservatives, extra sodium, and flavorings. These additions raise both salt and sugar compared with plain cooked meat.
Leftover ham often includes fatty edges, drippings, and bones that can be tempting to pets during cleanup. Cooked bones can splinter, and rich trimmings may upset fat-sensitive digestion. Keep carving scraps and glaze drips out of reach.
For pets, only a tiny plain lean piece is the lowest-risk option, if offered at all. Avoid seasoned, glazed, smoked, or deli-style portions.
