Some of NYC’s 500,000 stray cats could already be infected with bird flu — and a possible threat to humans: activists

The Looming Threat of Bird Flu to Stray Cats in New York City

The city that never sleeps is bracing for a new challenge: the deadly bird flu, also known as H5N1, which is currently wreaking havoc on avian populations across the United States. While the virus has primarily affected birds, animal activists are sounding the alarm about a troubling scenario: the potential spread of the virus to the half-million stray cats that roam the streets of New York City. Regina Massaro, founder of the Spay Neuter Intervention Project NYC, emphasizes, “I do believe at some point, cats are going to pick up a bird that’s infected. It’s just a matter of time.” This warning highlights the growing concern that the virus could leap from birds to cats, posing a threat not only to feline health but also to humans.

The Spread of Avian Flu in NYC: A Growing Concern

The avian flu crisis in New York City has reached alarming levels in 2025. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 2,000 birds across five flocks have been affected this year, compared to just 4,870 birds over the previous two years. This rapid spread has led to the deaths of more than a dozen ducks and wild birds at the Queens and Bronx zoos. A red-tailed hawk in The Bronx, a great horned owl in Queens, and a swan in Brooklyn are among the victims of this deadly outbreak. The virus’s relentless march through the city’s avian populations has prompted officials to take drastic measures. Earlier this month, Governor Kathy Hochul temporarily shut down all live poultry markets in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County to curb the spread of the disease.

The Risk of Transmission: From Birds to Cats to Humans

While the avian flu primarily affects birds, the virus can also be transmitted to cats, and in rare cases, to humans. Animal health experts warn that cats who come into contact with infected birds, whether through hunting or scavenging, are at risk of contracting the virus. Once infected, cats may exhibit symptoms such as sneezing, difficulty breathing, severe depression, and even seizures, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. The potential for cats to spread the virus to other animals or humans, though rare, adds another layer of complexity to the crisis. Dr. Stephanie Janeczko, Vice President of Shelter Medicine Services at the ASPCA, notes that while the risk to cats is currently low, it is crucial to monitor the situation closely and take preventive measures.

The Plight of Stray Cats: Vulnerable to the Virus

New York City’s estimated 500,000 stray cats are particularly vulnerable to the avian flu due to their instinctual behavior as predators. Stray cats, often driven by hunger or instinct, hunt wild birds or scavenge for food in areas where infected birds may be present. Regina Massaro, who regularly feeds and cares for stray cats in Queens, explains, “Cats are notorious hunters. They go after birds. That’s what they do. It’s a natural instinct.” This behavior puts them at a higher risk of coming into contact with infected birds. Given the large population of stray cats in the city, the potential for the virus to spread among them is significant. If left unchecked, this could have dire consequences for both the feline population and the humans who share their environment.

The Need for Vigilance: Monitoring and Preventing the Spread

Despite the absence of confirmed avian flu cases in New York City’s stray cat population, animal activists and health experts are urging authorities to take proactive steps to monitor the situation. Many are calling for increased surveillance, including necropsies on deceased stray cats, to detect any potential cases of the virus early. Massaro points out that necropsies are typically only performed on abused animals or pets, citing the high cost of the procedure. However, she argues that this practice should be extended to stray cats, especially those showing signs of illness, to ensure that any outbreak is identified and contained quickly. The city’s Animal Control Cares agency has not reported any suspected cases of avian flu in cats, but the lack of transparency about their monitoring efforts has raised concerns among activists.

A Call to Action: Protecting Cats and Humans Alike

As the avian flu continues to spread across New York City, it is imperative for both animal advocates and city officials to work together to protect the vulnerable stray cat population. This includes educating the public about the risks of the virus, encouraging responsible pet ownership, and providing resources for those caring for stray animals. By taking these steps, we can not only safeguard the health of our feline companions but also reduce the potential risk of transmission to humans. The situation underscores the interconnectedness of animal and human health, highlighting the need for a collaborative and proactive approach to addressing this growing crisis.