Cats do get colds, although they don't catch the same cold viruses humans do. Instead, their colds are typically caused by feline-specific viruses such as the feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus, which cause upper respiratory infections with symptoms similar to human colds like sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and mild fever. These infections are contagious among cats but are not transmissible to humans. Cats often catch these viruses through close contact with other cats, such as in shelters, boarding facilities, or outdoor interactions. Stress or a weakened immune system can also trigger the activation of dormant viruses, causing cold symptoms to appear. Vaccines are available for some of these viruses to reduce severity and complications in cats. Symptoms of a cat cold include sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, mild fever, coughing, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Most cat colds resolve within 1-2 weeks with proper care, which includes keeping the cat warm, encouraging rest, cleaning discharge from their eyes and nose, and sometimes using a humidifier. Veterinary attention is needed if symptoms worsen or persist, especially in kittens, elderly cats, or those with weakened immune systems.