best cat movies ever

In the mood to watch some cat-related content? You’ve landed on the right page. If you’re looking for a good film to watch, then you should try one of the 37 cat movies listed in this article.

These films have been hand-picked by the Cats Kingdom Club and represent the best out there.

The selections span from classics to new releases, funny to horror, and everything in between. You will not be disappointed with these picks, so grab some popcorn and get ready for a good time!

37. Banjo the Woodpile Cat

  • Description: A mischievous kitten runs away from home and soon realizes it’s a mistake.
  • Year: 1979
  • Genre: Comedy
short cat movie

One of the classics to be featured on this list is Banjo the Woodpile Cat. It is a heartwarming movie where you get to follow along with an adventure-loving cat and his friends. 

Banjo is a notorious kitten who likes to do crazy stuff. One ay he secretly gets on the back of the truck to see the city.

After enjoying his time in the city he feels lonely and scared and wishes to go back to his home. He takes the help of a stray cat and together they start the journey to Banjo’s home.

If you’re looking for a feel-good film that’ll delight your senses, then this is the perfect pick for your lazy Sunday.

36. The Three Lives of Thomasina

  • Description: A story of a cat who can defeat death.
  • Year: 1963
  • Genre: Drama
old cat movie

The story of The Three Lives of Thomasina is one that will tug at your heartstrings and make you wonder if there’s such thing as reincarnation. It’s sad but endearing, and often funny as well!

In this film, a sleek cat named Thomasina is the pet of an eccentric girl and her widowed father. On a fateful day Thomsina meets with an accident and dies.

The little girl blames her father and hates him for not saving the cat. But in turn of event Thomsina finds her in the house of a witch, very much alive. 

35. Cats

  • Description: A story revolving around a tribe of anthropomorphic cats.
  • Year: 1998
  • Genre: Musical drama
musical cat movie

Cats a is a musical drama movie that was filmed on a stage when people in cat costumes perform songs and narrate a beautiful story through that medium.

The film tells the story of a tribe of cats called Jellicles and their night to find out which one will be reborn as the next “Jellicle cat” and come back to a new life.

Along the way, they meet other creatures from their land, including an old enemy named Macavity, who wants nothing more than to stop the Jellicles from having this night that is so important to them.

34. Spy Cat

  • Description: The life of an over-pampered cat changes when she decides to be a spy.
  • Year: 2018
  • Genre: Adventure
cat movies for kids

The plot of Spy Cat revolves around a highly pampered cat named Marnie who leaves a life of peace and luxury to follow her passion of becoming a spy.

Along with her friends, she goes on a mission to solve mysteries and fulfill her wishes. This movie shows the adorable cat doing silly things while acting smart.

The movie has something for everyone and is perfect for anyone looking for a light-hearted adventure-comedy that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

33. The Cat in the Hat

  • Description: Two bored children have a fun blast when a talking cat comes to visit them.
  • Year: 2003
  • Genre: Comedy

The Cat in the Hat is a great movie for those who want some family-friendly entertainment.

This animated film features the beloved Dr. Seuss’s characters and tells the story of two siblings who were dying out of boredom until a talking cat wearing a hat appears on their door. He plays with them and runs away before the kids’ mother comes home.

32. Garfield: The Movie

  • Description: Garfield is in search of Oddie after he got abducted.
  • Year: 2004
  • Genre: Adventure, Comedy
dog and cat movie

Garfield is universally loved by all ages. It all began with comic strips and now Garfield has been turned into cartoons and movies.

The story follows Garfield as he tries to find his Oddie, another pet of his owner who’s been kidnapped. All while being chased by his own nemesis, Nermal.

This movie is one for the whole family to enjoy! The voice work is excellent and all dialogue is true to the character from the comic strip. The animation looks fantastic too–it’s bright, colorful, and pleasantly surprising.

31. Gay Purr-ee

  • Description: A story of a farm cat who runs away to live a glamorous life in Paris and ends up in big trouble.
  • Year: 1962
  • Genre: Comedy
animated cat movie

Gay Purr-ee is an excellent animated cat movie that came out in 1962. Though its animation is not the best, it is still a must-watch because of its story and fabulous voice acting.

It is about a farm cat named Mewsette who runs away from her home to live a big life in Paris but she is captured by an evil cat.

Her only hope is her friends from home who reaches Paris looking for her.

30. Cat’s Eye

  • Description: A stray cat is the linking element of three tales of suspense and horror.
  • Year: 1985
  • Genre: Horror, Comedy
horror cat movie

If you’re looking for a good horror comedy film, then Cat’s Eye is the best one for you. The story revolves around a mysterious cat who is involved in various thrilling scenarios, three to be precise.

The movie is divided into three part and in each part, someone picks up this cat and takes it to their home and problems ensues.

You’ll find suspense, drama, comedy, and a little horror in this movie which makes it an overall package.

29. The Rabbi’s Cat

  • Description: A story of a rabbi’s cat who learns how to speak after swallowing the family parrot. 
  • Year: 2011
  • Genre: Comedy
light hearted cat movie

A rabbi’s cat is a hilarious movie about a cat who wants to be a rabbi (a Jewish scholar)and his adventures as he travels to Jerusalem with his master, the rabbi.

The movie has really witty dialogue and an inspirational message about love and acceptance. The animation is very simple, but it still has the power to make you laugh.

It is fun and quirky and had a great message for kids (and adults). The movie makes you laugh and feel good at the same time!

Popular Read:  Meet Felix: The Beloved Cat Character From Felix The Cat

28. Harry and Tonto

  • Description: A story of an old man and his pet cat on a journey of a lifetime.
  • Year: 1974
  • Genre: Comedy

One of the best cat movies on this list is Harry and Tonto. It is a perfect starter for your cat movie marathon because it offers everything you need from an emotional plotline to adorable cats. 

The story is about Harry, an elderly widower, and his beloved pet cat Tonto. Together they start a journey all across the USA to see what they haven’t seen before and live their life to the fullest.

27. Pet Sematary

  • Description: A cat owner decides to revive his dead cat.
  • Year: 1989
  • Genre: Horror, Thriller

You know what they say about cats, nine lives, never dies. But what if your cat does die? The story follows Louis Creed and his family as they move into a new home in Maine. There, he encounters a burial ground that has the power to bring his beloved cat back to life.

Creed has always been fascinated with death and what lies beyond it, but he soon learns that it may be wiser not to tamper with dark secrets within people’s cemeteries.

If you’re thinking twice about watching this movie because you don’t like scary movies, don’t worry! Pet Sematary is more than just terrifying; it also has heartwarming moments.

26. Marmaduke

  • Description: Adventures of two best friends a dog and a cat.
  • Year: 2010
  • Genre: Comedy

Marmaduke is a story of a dog and his best friend, a cat. The movie is inspired by the famous comic strip of the same name. Marmaduke is a Great Dane who lives with the Winslow family. He has a cat best friend named Carlos. He’s happy, goofy and together they have lots of fun.

One day Marmaduke develops a crush on a female dog and Carlo decides to help his best buddy in getting his love.

25. The Black Cat

  • Description: A person with psychic abilities uses his pet cat to take vengeance.
  • Year: 1981
  • Genre: Horror

Though cats have been a part of many horror movies all around the world, there are very few good horror films where the cat has a major role.

The Black Cat is one such superb cat movie that takes the cake for all cat-related scary films.

The story revolves around a man named Mile who is a psychic and can communicate with the dead and control his pet cat with his mind. He uses his cat to exact revenge on those who did him wrong. 

24. Milo & Otis

  • Description: A story of two friends, a cat, and a dog searching for each other after getting separated.
  • Year: 1986
  • Genre: Drama, Adventure

If you’re looking for a cute cat film for your kids, then Milo & Otis is the perfect pick. The movie is about two friends who find themselves on opposite sides of the world, but they never lose hope that they will be reunited one day.

This movie is great for kids because it teaches them not to give up on their friends. MIlo and Otis grew up together on a farm but they got separated. The two beings a treacherous journey to find each other.

Milo & Otis is a great way to introduce these lessons to children before they’re faced with similar challenges in life.

23. Rhubarb

  • Description: A multi-millionaire leaves all his wealth to his pet cat after his death.
  • Year: 1951
  • Genre: Comedy

We got so many unique and beautiful cat movies in the 20th century and one of them is Rhubarb. It is a story about a cat named Rhubarb who became the center of attention of the world when his super-rich owner left all his possessions in his name after his death.

This caused a dramatic change in Rhubarb’s life in both good and bad ways. I am sure you liked the premise of the movie and I guarantee you that you’ll enjoy the movie too.

22. Cats & Dogs

  • Description: A battle between cats and dogs from supremacy.
  • Year: 2001
  • Genre: Comedy, Action
cat vs dog movie

Cats & Dogs is a live-action film that was released in 2001. It’s a family movie that is worth watching with kids of all ages.

It’s mainly about the different interactions between dogs and cats, and how they work together on some occasions, but have their differences on others.

The movie does a good job of showing the different personalities of both animals, while also showing how they can be friends at times.

21. Rock Dog

  • Description: A story of a dog wanting to be a musician finds a mentor in a cat who is a famous rockstar.
  • Year: 2016
  • Genre: Comedy
funny cat movie

Rock Dog is a delightful story about a dog named Bodi who leaves his home to achieve his dream of becoming a musician. He reaches the city and requests his favorite musician Angus, a cat to make him his disciple.  

The movie gives the massage to strive for one’s dreams and never give up. It is a very good movie for both kids and adults to take inspiration from apart from all the fun and joy.

20. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

  • Description: Two dogs and a cat embarks on a treacherous journey to get back home.
  • Year: 1993
  • Genre: Comedy, Adventure
cat and dog movie

This film is a Disney classic that follows three pets on their journey home. The pets are an American Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, and Siamese cat. They must cross perilous terrain to get back to their loving family who’s anxiously waiting for their return.

One of the greatest things about this movie is its relatability. Who doesn’t want to go home? It’s something that everyone can relate to, regardless of age or background.

The journeys in this film are quite long, but the dogs and cats never give up hope. Their adventures are both entertaining and heartwarming, which makes them highly enjoyable for the audience.

Popular Read:  Meet Lucifer: The Devilishly Charming Cat of Cinderella

19. Kiki’s Delivery Service

  • Description: A story of a small witch and her talking pet cat.
  • Year: 1989
  • Genre: Comedy

Released in 1989, Kiki’s Delivery Service is one of the most iconic cat movies. Based on a children’s book by Eiko Kadono, this film follows a young witch named Kiki as she leaves home to start her own life.

With the help of her talking cat Jiji, she starts up a delivery service and tries to figure out what kind of person she wants to be in the world.

This film will allow you to fall in love with a little girl before her journey begins and follow her all the way through its completion. It might not be your favorite at first, but give Kiki’s Delivery Service a chance! You won’t regret it!

18. The Cat from Outer Space

  • Description: A cat from another planet arrives on earth and starts living with a human family.
  • Year: 1978
  • Genre: Comedy

The Cat from Outer Space is a classic cat movie. This movie follows the story of an alien cat who crash-lands on Earth and finds himself taken in by a family of humans.

He requests the help of a scientist named Frank to repair his ship so he can go back to his planet.

If you’re looking for some lighthearted entertainment, we recommend starting with this one!

17. A Street Cat Named Bob

  • Description: The life of a drug addict changes when he meets a stray cat.
  • Year: 2016
  • Genre: Drama

One of the best cat movies ever made is A Street Cat Named Bob. If you’re looking for a happy film with an inspiring message, then this one is for you.

The movie follows the life of James Bowen who was once addicted to drugs and alcohol. His life changed when he found a stray cat named Bob.

The two became best friends and together they survived on the streets of London. Eventually, James was able to get his act together and turn his life around. Now, he uses his experience to help other people in similar situations.

It’s a heartwarming story that will make you believe in second chances!

16. Bolt

  • Description: An alley cat helps a famous dog who got lost.
  • Year: 2008
  • Genre: Adventure, Comedy
dog and cat movies

This animated film is one of the best cat movies to watch on a lazy Sunday. It tells the story of Bolt, a TV show star who begins to believe he is in fact a real-life super-dog.

When his owner goes missing, he ends up crossing country lines to find her but ends up getting lost himself. He then meets a stray cat named Mittens who decides to help Bolt in getting back home.

Fans love this movie because it’s heartwarming and exciting, but also because it is one of the best cat and dog movies. 

15. That Darn Cat

  • Description: A cat helps the FBI solve a kidnapping case.
  • Year: 1965
  • Genre: Comedy

One of the best cat movies out there is That Darn Cat. Released in 1965, it is a mystery film that revolves around a cat who helps the FBI to solve a kidnapping case.

But the problem is the FBI office in charge of the case is allergic to cats.

If you’re looking for a good family-friendly film that features cats in a positive light, then this is your best bet.

14. Nine Lives

  • Description: A stodgy businessman finds himself trapped inside the body of his family’s cat.
  • Year: 2016
  • Genre: Comedy

This cat movie stars Kevin Spacey as Tom Brand, a wealthy businessman, he is driven, focused, and likes to get what he wants.

But this puts strain on his family life as he’s not able to give time to them. One day he gets turned into a cat that he bought for his daughter and has to find his way back to human form before he’s stuck this way forever.

The movie is great for all ages and it teaches some great life lessons to form relationships with loved ones while you still can!

13. The Aristocats

  • Description: A sweet story of a nobleman’s cat and her children.
  • Year: 1970
  • Genre: Comedy

The Aristocats is a timeless classic. One of the most popular Disney cat movies ever made, The Aristocats tells the story of a family of aristocratic cats from Paris. The main characters are Duchess and her three kittens, Marie, Berlioz, and Toulouse.

They are all sheltered from the outside world. One day at the park, they meet up with Thomas O’Malley who tells them about his life living in the country. He also tells them about how he ran away from home to see what the rest of the world is like.

What makes this movie really special? It tells a fantastic story with memorable characters that you’ll never forget. What more could you ask for?

12. Felidae

  • Description: A cat investigates brutal murders of other cats in his neighborhood.
  • Year: 1994
  • Genre: Drama

Felidae is a French-German animated film that explored the story of a cat named Francis who discovered brutal serial murders of other cats in his neighborhood and went on a mission to bring justice to the killer.

This film is different from other cat movies in its animation style and the way it’s filmed. It is also quite violent in graphics, so it might not be very suitable for the kids as it may cause an unsettling feeling to viewers. But overall, this cat movie is worthy of watching.

 11. Miss Minoes

  • Description: A cat who turned into a young woman helps a journalist protect their town from an evil man.
  • Year: 2001
  • Genre: Comedy

Miss Minoes is a special cat movie with an interesting plotline. The story is about a cat who turns into a young girl named Minoes. She can communicate with other cats.

And with this power, she helps a journalist uncover a massive conspiracy against their town.

The movie is funny and keeps its viewers hooked at all times. So, I highly recommend you to give it a watch.

Popular Read:  Meet Kiara: The Spirited Princess From Lion King

10. The Lion King

  • Description: A coming of age story of a lion cub Simba.
  • Year: 1994
  • Genre: Comedy

The Lion King is one of the most popular Disney films. It tells the story of a young lion cub named Simba who was born to take his father’s place as king but runs away after being betrayed by his uncle Scar.

The film has much more to it than just this though and is loved by many around the world.

It also had a significant impact on cinema and animation. If you’re looking for a new adventure with furry friends, I recommend checking out The Lion King!

9. Oliver & Company

  • Description: A lost and alone kitten joins a gang of street dogs in New York City.
  • Year: 1988
  • Genre: Comedy, Adventure

Oliver & Company is a story about friendship, loyalty, and believing in yourself. Join this adorable kitten on his adventures to find a place for himself in this dangerous world.

Oliver is an orange homeless kitten that is taken in by a gang of street dogs who survive by stealing from others.

Oliver becomes a part of the team and follows the lifestyle of the dogs until he meets a rich little girl and his life changes forever.

8. Puss in Boots

  • Description: Enthralling story of a pussy cat wearing fancy boots and a hat, equipped with a tiny sword.
  • Year: 2011
  • Genre: Comedy, Adventure
a cat movie on netflix

Puss in Boots is one of the delightful animated cat movies streaming on Netflix. It follows the story of Puss in Boots, one of the most famous cats in fairytales. He’s being pursued by the evil Humpty Dumpty.

This film is appropriate for both children and adults, making it a great choice for family movie night! As it progresses, you’ll find yourself laughing out loud at some of the jokes and enjoying the amazing animation.

The Cats Kingdom Club recommends this movie for anyone looking for a lighthearted film with cute characters and lots of action.

7. Keanu

  • Description: The life of two cousins changes when a cute kitten of LA kingpin enters their lives.
  • Year: 2016
  • Genre: Comedy

Keanu is a fun action-comedy that hits all the right notes. Plus the Kitten in this movie is cute as hell.

The movie revolves around two goofy cousins: a kitten and a dangerous LA Kingpin looking to get his beloved kitten back.

This film is full of laughs and has a definite “chill” vibe that will leave you wanting more.

6. Cats Don’t Dance

  • Description: A story of cat talented cat who wants to be a movie star.
  • Year: 1997
  • Genre: Comedy

Cats Don’t Dance is one of the best cat movies I’ve ever seen. It has great music, hilarious jokes, and an amazing cast of voice actors. But what really sets this movie apart from others is its fantastic message about following your dreams and believing in yourself.

The movie is about a cat named Danny who can sing and dance very well and his dream is to become a movie star.

Though it is not easy for an animal to become famous in movies, Danny is not willing to give up on his dreams.

5. The Cat Returns

  • Description: A girl is forced into marrying a Cat Prince.
  • Year: 2002
  • Genre: Comedy 

This film is great for people who are looking for an anime-style movie with some comedy thrown in. 

The story is about a 17-year old girl who saves a mysterious cat who is actually the Cat King. He gets so impressed by the girl that he wishes her to marry his son, Prince Lune. 

The story then continues as the girl tries to escape from marrying an anime cat boy and getting into other awkward situations.

4. A Cat In Paris

  • Description: A story of a cat who lives a double life as a cute pet in the day and a burglar at night.
  • Year: 2010
  • Genre: Comedy 

This film is a delightful mix of cat fantasy and real-world heist adventure. Kudos to the filmmakers for creating such a unique film!

The movie is about Dino, a pet cat of a small girl named Zoe. But he has another life too. At night he teams up with a burglar and assists him in stealing precious items.

One day Zoe gets kidnapped by the gangsters and it is up to Dino to save his lovely human.

3. A Whisker Away

  • Description: A rom-com story of a girl who can turn into a cat.
  • Year: 2020
  • Genre: Comedy, Romance
a cat movie on netflix

A sweet story about a girl named Miyo developing a crush on a classmate. But she has a secret, she can turn into a cat.

So she decides to use this power to get close to her crush and she succeeded. But the guy has no clue that the cat she adores is a girl and Mayo is scared to confess the truth to him.

It is a highly acclaimed cat movie and you can easily watch it on Netflix in your free time.

2. Tom and Jerry: The Movie

  • Description: Tom and Jerry reluctantly team up to save a young girl from her evil aunt.
  • Year: 1992
  • Genre: Comedy

It won’t be fair to add two or three spin-off movies of the Tom and Jerry franchise to this list, so I chose the one that I liked the best and placed it here.

In this movie, Tom and Jerry put a hold on their rivalry and decide to work together and help a small orphan girl who is mistreated by her evil aunt. The movie is hilarious, very sweet, and worth the watch.

1. Whisper of the Heart

  • Description: A story of a girl who follows her passion for writing.
  • Year: 1995
  • Genre: Drama
romantic cat movie

This magical cat movie is a Studio Ghibli classic. Whisper of the Heart tells the story of a high school girl, Shizuku, who has to keep her love for literature secret from her family.

With the help of friends, she finds it in herself to write her story in an effort to express herself. She decides to write a fantasy story where she is the protagonist and the male hero is an anthropomorphic cat boy.