During the study period, from June 2020 to May 2021, the samples revealed that 16% of the cats had antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, providing evidence of previous infection. Cats sampled in fall 2020 showed a 44% positive antibody rate, timing that coincided with a surge of human cases in New York City. The study found no link between a cat’s age, breed or sex and likelihood of infection. Only two cats had signs of respiratory infection along with high levels of antibodies.

When I tested positive, I moved out of my apartment so I wouldn’t infect the two sick, elderly cats I was caring for.