House Cats in New York Become First Known to Contract COVID-19

Two house cats in New York have become the first confirmed to test positive for COVID-19. The felines were tested after they developed “mild respiratory symptoms”. At this time, it’s unclear exactly how they became infected. It’s believed at least one of the owners never had the virus but officials have said its entirely possible they were asymptomatic. It’s also possible the cats were infected by something or someone outside their homes. The two cats have joined eight other lions and tigers from the Bronx Zoo who have also tested positive. All cats, big and small, are expected to make a full recovery. But a major concern remains and that is, can an animal transmit to a human? Since testing positive, one of the owners of the cats has also contracted the virus. However, Dr. Anthony Fauci has stressed “There is no evidence whatsoever that we’ve seen that pets can be transmitters within the household.”