Cat Movies All Feline Aficionados Should Know

To state the obvious, cats are awesome. Not only do they bring joy and companionship to our personal lives, but they can be highly entertaining on the screen. Yes, we’re talking about cats in movies!

Our feline friends have a long history in cinema, and they’ve made their mark in everything from old school silent films to modern-day blockbusters. (fun fact: Thomas Edison is said to have made the first-ever “cat movie” in 1894). Whether they’re helping solve mysteries or just being adorable, cats bring their natural charm to any movie they appear in.

Of course, there are hundreds of movies featuring cats, and not all are created equal. Fortunately for feline fans and cinephiles everywhere, we’re here to help you narrow down your choices.

15 movies for cat lovers

Wondering what to watch this evening with your own furry friend? Prepare to get cozy with one of these purr-fect cinematic adventures.

1. Alice in Wonderland (1951)

There are tons of quirky characters in this beloved version of Alice in Wonderland, but the Cheshire Cat is easily one of the most memorable. This striped rascal is known for his huge grin and high intelligence, sometimes helping Alice while at other times getting her into trouble. His ability to turn invisible may be a tad beyond your pet cat’s realm of physics, but it’s his penchant for mischief that’ll remind you of them nonetheless.

It’s also worth noting that the Cheshire Cat isn’t even the only kitty in this movie. Fans of more traditional, less-chatty cats may prefer Alice’s pet Dinah, a cute reddish brown and white kitten seen in the opening and closing scenes.

2. The Three Lives of Thomasina (1963)

Set in 1912 Scotland, this sentimental drama-fantasy follows a veterinarian, his daughter Mary, and their pet cat dealing with everyday stress, tragedy, and the supernatural. The whole thing is narrated by the cat too, which adds to its unique charm. True cat lovers — and anyone who loves animals — will laugh and cry (in a good way!) with this one.

3. That Darn Cat! (1965)

When a mysterious bank robbery occurs, a Siamese cat just so happens to pick up the only clue that can crack the case. This memorable ‘60s flick wholly embraces mischievous cat behavior and weaves it well between some pretty good thrills. Will the FBI start following the cat in time for the crime to solved? You’ll just have to watch and find out.

4. The Aristocats (1970)

The Aristocats has been a staple among cat lovers for over 50 years now, and it’s easy to see why. Set in 1910s Paris, this is the story of a mother cat and her three adorable kittens who find themselves suddenly far from home and the victims of a sinister plot. With the help of a streetwise tomcat and his buddies, they learn more about the world and how to get around. There are cats galore in this animated flick, as well as the delightful song “Ev’rybody Wants to Be a Cat.”

5. The Cat from Outer Space (1978)

This family-friendly sci-fi comedy follows the adventures of a highly intelligent extraterrestrial feline who crash-lands on Earth. Through a series of mishaps and clever maneuvers, the cat and his new human allies work together to outwit their pursuers and help the lost feline return home. If you’ve ever felt like your own cat’s behavior is a bit “out there,” this is the movie for you.

6. Alien (1979)

Alien is a famous movie about a spacecraft crew being terrorized by a powerful extraterrestrial stowaway, but it’s the ship’s animal mascot who steals the show. Jones or “Jonesy cat” is arguably just as much the hero as the main human, to the point that he’s still found on T-shirts and referenced in movies and TV shows today. He was even referred to as “the most famous cat in horror” by ScreenRant, so if you’re a fan of the genre and haven’t seen this movie yet, it’s time.

7. Oliver & Company (1988)

Oliver & Company is an animated reimagining of Oliver Twist that features a lot of dogs in main roles, but at its center is quite possibly the cutest cartoon cat ever created. Young Oliver is an orange tabby kitten without a home, taken in by a group of dogs who making their living stealing from humans around New York. You know what? This one’s not just for cat folks — it’s for pet lovers everywhere.

8. Hocus Pocus (1993)

Everyone who’s seen this kid-friendly spooky classic knows that the heroes wouldn’t get anywhere without the help of one particular black domestic shorthair. A former human who’s been stuck as a cat for centuries, Thackery Binx is capable and amusingly witty in his fight against the evil Sanderson sisters. If you ever find yourself accidently awakening some colonial witches like them on Halloween night, you’ll want a good cat like Thackery by your side.

9. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)

If you’re among those who love both dogs and cats, Homeward Bound should be an easy go-to. This heartwarming ‘90s family film follows the wilderness journey of two dogs, Chance and Shadow, and a Himalayan cat named Sassy who brings wit and sarcasm to the adventure. As they travel through the wilderness to reunite with their family, the trio must overcome various challenges and dangers. The film highlights the enduring bond between pets and their owners, and it’s the rare pet movie that explores a more loving and complex relationship between cats and dogs rather than outright animosity.

10. The Lion King (1994)

Sure, there aren’t any domestic kitties in this one. But with lions playing the central role in this animated classic, it’s a great movie for cat lovers nonetheless! And here’s a fun fact: the filmmakers studied real-life lions in the wild to make their animated creations more lifelike. From young Simba’s adorable mews to mighty adult lion pounces, it’s easy to see where our much smaller companions get their behavior.

11. Cats & Dogs (2001)

For those who enjoy the idea of ongoing competition between canines and felines, Cats & Dogs is an action-comedy that presents a secret war between cats and dogs while humans remain blissfully unaware. A diabolical cat named Mr. Tinkles is the mastermind behind it all, planning to conquer humans and canines alike. While he is technically the villain, his intelligence and hilarious battle for dominance pay loving homage to the superior nature of cats everywhere.

12. Puss in Boots (2011)

As many movie lovers are already aware, Puss is a swashbuckling, boot-wearing feline who made his cinematic debut in 2004’s Shrek 2. And while that’s definitely worth a watch, it’s this spinoff movie that really embraces the character in all his cat-glory. Get ready to introduce your pet to their new favorite film hero — he may be animated, but his movements are definitely based on real-life feline acrobatics.

13. Inside Llewyn Davis (2013)

This black comedy is about a struggling folk musician in 1961 New York City, but it’s an adventurous, escape-loving orange cat that continuously steals the show. Without giving too much away, the cat may actually be two or three different cats who just happen to look alike, but part of the fun is the mystery. Coincidentally, the role was played by three lookalike actor cats named Tigger, Daryl, and Jerry.

14. Keanu (2016)

Whether you actively have a kitten in your life or simply can’t resist adorableness, this movie is for you. In this buddy-action-comedy, two friends must track down a kidnapped kitten who, yes, is named Keanu. And yes, he’s just about the cutest kitten in the world. Even cuter? Seven young tabby kittens were used during filming, and the movie’s cast and crew got to play with them during breaks.

15. Cats (2019)

If you love the idea of watching an entire cast of very-human-looking actors painted over with CGI cat features and singing songs that largely have to do with being a cat, then you’ll love Cats! Adapted from the beloved Andrew Lloyd Webber stage musical (which was in turn adapted from a collection of cat-tastic poetry by T.S. Eliot), this movie is at its core a colorful ode to felines everywhere. And hey, if you’re like many viewers who’ve found the computerized visuals a tad unsettling, it’ll at least make you appreciate your real-life cat even more than you already do.

Protect your cat during movie time

Accidents can happen at any time, including when you're at home in front of the TV. Keep an eye on your pet no matter how engaging the movie is, and make sure they stay out of any snacks or drinks you've decided to kick back with. While you're deciding what to watch this evening, consider protecting your cat's health in general with a good pet insurance plan.

Don’t worry, dog lovers! We’ve got you covered too with this list of great movies featuring canines.