Cats in Cinema: 15 Must-Watch Movies for Feline Lovers!

Cats dominate the internet, our homes, and, of course, the big screen! It’s no surprise that feline-themed movies are such a hit—studies show that cat-related content has 15% higher engagement rates on digital platforms. Furthermore, humanity's fascination with these furry companions dates back centuries, from ancient Egyptian mythology to modern-day memes.

If you love cinema and can’t resist a pair of curious eyes and impressive whiskers, this list is for you!

Grab your popcorn and discover movies where cats steal the spotlight—whether through cuteness, mischief, or even magical powers.

The Cat Returns (2002)

- Where to watch: HBO Max

- How many movies in the series?: A standalone film, but connected to the Whisper of the Heart (1995) universe by Studio Ghibli.

- Synopsis: Haru is an ordinary student who, after saving a cat from being hit by a car, discovers that he is a feline prince. As a reward, she is taken to the Kingdom of Cats, where she receives unusual proposals and must fight for her freedom.

Baron, a charming and gentlemanly cat, is the epitome of feline elegance. With his impeccable posture, refined attire, and mysterious personality, he becomes the true hero of the story, helping Haru find her own path.

A Whisker Away (2020)

- Where to watch: Netflix

- Synopsis: Miyo, a girl in love with her classmate Kento, finds a magical mask that allows her to transform into a cat to get closer to her crush. However, the longer she stays in feline form, the harder it becomes to return to her human self.

The film beautifully captures the freedom and mystery of being a cat. Tarō, the cat Miyo transforms into, delivers adorable moments while experiencing the joys of feline life and discovering what truly matters.

Garfield: The Movie (2004)

- Where to watch: Disney+

- How many movies in the series?: Two (Garfield: The Movie and Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties).

- Synopsis: Garfield, a lazy, lasagna-loving cat, sees his comfortable routine threatened when his owner adopts Odie, a clumsy dog. But when Odie is kidnapped, Garfield must step out of his comfort zone to rescue him.

Garfield is the most iconic cat in comics and TV, and his transition to the big screen maintains his sarcastic humor, love for food, and hatred for Mondays. He is the ultimate lazy yet irresistibly funny cat.

A Street Cat Named Bob (2016)

- Where to watch: Apple TV, Prime Video (rental)

- How many movies in the series?: Two (A Street Cat Named Bob and A Gift from Bob).

- Synopsis: Based on a true story, the film follows the journey of James Bowen, a street musician recovering from addiction, whose life changes completely when he meets an orange cat named Bob. Together, they become a sensation on the streets of London.

Bob isn’t just a character—he’s the real-life cat who inspired the story! His bond with James is heartwarming and proves the transformative power of animals in our lives.

A Cat in Paris (2010)

- Where to watch: Apple TV (rental)

- Synopsis: Dino is a cat living a double life: by day, he is the companion of Zoé, a girl who lost her voice after a traumatic event; by night, he accompanies a skilled thief across the rooftops of Paris. When Zoé gets caught up in a kidnapping, Dino becomes the key to her rescue.

The stylized animation and Parisian charm give this film a unique touch. Dino is agile, clever, and conveys so much without saying a single word.

Puss in Boots (2011)

- Where to watch: Netflix, Prime Video

- How many movies in the series?: Two (Puss in Boots and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish).

- Synopsis: Before joining Shrek, Puss in Boots embarks on an action-packed adventure to recover magic beans and restore his honor.

With his irresistible big-eyed look, seductive accent, and masterful sword skills, Puss in Boots is one of the most captivating characters in modern animation.

The Electrical Life of Louis Wain (2021)

- Where to watch: Prime Video

- Synopsis: Based on the true story of British artist Louis Wain, famous for his psychedelic cat illustrations. The film explores his genius, personal struggles, and the influence of cats on his art.

Wain’s cats are more than just models for his paintings; they symbolize his unique worldview and the way he found beauty and hope even in his darkest moments.

The Aristocats (1970)

- Where to watch: Disney+

- Synopsis: A family of aristocratic cats must find their way home with the help of a street-smart alley cat named Thomas O’Malley.

Beyond its iconic songs, the film features the unforgettable Duchess, an elegant and loving mother, and her mischievous kittens. Thomas O’Malley brings a bohemian charm to the story, proving that feline love can bridge very different worlds.

Felidae (1994)

- Where to watch: Hard to find on streaming platforms.

- Synopsis: A German animated thriller in which a cat named Francis investigates mysterious murders in his neighborhood.

Francis is a feline detective worthy of a noir film, and the plot is dark and gripping—showing that not all cat animations are cute and cuddly.

Oliver & Company (1988)

- Where to watch: Disney+

- Synopsis: A modern adaptation of Oliver Twist, starring a stray kitten navigating the streets of New York.

Oliver is a small fighter, and his story of friendship with a gang of street dogs and a loving owner is heartwarming, with catchy songs along the way.

The Rabbi’s Cat (2011)

- Where to watch: Apple TV (rental).

- Synopsis: Set in 1920s Algeria, this film follows a cat who, after swallowing a parrot, gains the ability to speak. He challenges his owner’s beliefs—a rabbi—and embarks on a philosophically rich and culturally deep journey.

The story blends humor, reflections on faith, and stunning animation inspired by the graphic novel of the same name.

Luck (2022)

- Where to watch: Apple TV+.

- Synopsis: Sam is the unluckiest person in the world until she meets a black cat named Bob, who takes her to a magical world where luck is managed by extraordinary creatures.

Bob, the black cat, is a sleek and enigmatic figure, proving that felines can bring good luck rather than the opposite!

Cats in the Museum (2023)

- Where to watch: No official confirmation yet.

- Synopsis: Inspired by the real-life cats of the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, this film follows a kitten who must protect the museum from mischievous rats and uncover hidden secrets within the artwork.

Based on true events, the movie highlights how cats play an essential role in history and the daily life of major cultural monuments.

Flow (2024)

- Where to watch: Not yet available on streaming.

- Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic world where nature has reclaimed the cities, a cat survives by exploring mysterious ruins. He navigates this desolate landscape, guided by his instincts and enigmatic encounters with other creatures.

Flow offers a unique feline perspective in a transformed world. The artistic setting and silent feline protagonist make this a visually immersive and poetic film.

Nine Lives (2016)

- Where to watch: Prime Video.

- Synopsis: Tom, a workaholic businessman, ends up trapped in the body of a cat after a mysterious accident. To return to normal, he must learn valuable lessons about family and empathy.

Mixing comedy and fantasy, the film forces its human protagonist to live as a cat and experience the peculiarities of feline life firsthand.

Cats have always been stars—both on-screen and in the hearts of audiences. The success of films like @@@@ in Boots and adaptations like Oliver & Company proves just how much these furry companions influence pop culture. Studies even show that cat owners watch 30% more feline-related content than any other type of video.

So, if you haven’t yet indulged in a cat-filled movie marathon, now’s the time! Pick your favorite film, snuggle up with your feline friend (or wish you had one!), and enjoy!

See you in the next article!