Over 50% of New York City's Free-Roaming Cats Carry Zoonotic Parasites, Study Reveals

On July 10, 2026, researchers from Rowan University and Long Island University reported that over 50% of free-roaming cats in New York City are infected with zoonotic parasites. This alarming discovery highlights the potential health risks posed by the city’s stray and feral cat population.

Health Risks Associated with Free-Roaming Cats

While cats are beloved pets, stray and feral cats in urban environments can carry diseases that may be transmitted to humans. The study found that more than 57.5% of the sampled outdoor cats were positive for at least one endoparasite species detected through fecal flotation methods. The dominant parasite identified was Toxocara, a roundworm known to cause the disease toxocariasis.

Veterinary researchers used blood and fecal samples from 87 outdoor cats captured through the city’s TNR (Trap Neuter Return) program to assess the prevalence of these parasites. The findings indicate a serious public health concern, particularly for those who may come into contact with contaminated soil or cat feces.

Prevalence of Parasitic Infections

The research revealed that the predominant parasite, Toxocara cati, can infect humans through microscopic eggs shed in cat feces. This can lead to severe health consequences, especially in children and immunocompromised individuals. The study also noted that male cats were significantly more likely to be infected with Toxocara spp., with a reported odds ratio of 4.36.

Other parasites identified in the study included Ancylostoma species, a type of hookworm, found in 13.8% of the cats, and coccidia, which infects the intestinal tract. The combination of these parasites poses a heightened risk for public health.

Recommendations for Public Health Measures

Given the potential health threats posed by these parasites, the study authors recommend integrating disease tracking and parasite treatments into the existing TNR programs across New York City. This approach may help mitigate the risks associated with free-roaming cats and protect both animal and human health.

As cities continue to grapple with stray cat populations, understanding the health implications is crucial. The findings serve as a call to action for public health officials and animal welfare advocates to address the underlying issues of cat overpopulation and associated health risks.