The 65+ Best Cat Movies of All Time, Ranked

Ranker Film
Updated May 24, 2024 213.8K views 69 items
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15.4K votes
2.0K voters
3 reranks
Voting Rules
Only movies that have cats as main characters
Latest additions: Garfield, Cat Pack: A Paw Patrol Exclusive Event, A Cat's Life
Most divisive: The Three Lives of Thomasina
Over 2.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 65+ Best Cat Movies of All Time, Ranked

Dive into the enchanting world of the best cat movies, a delightful collection that showcases the charm and adventures of our feline friends. This comprehensive list includes everything from heartwarming animated cat movies to captivating live-action cat films. Whether it's the whimsy of cat animation movies or the emotional depth of films about real-life cats, our selection is tailored to enchant cat enthusiasts and movie lovers alike.

Our carefully curated collection features famous cats from movies that have left a lasting impression on audiences. From the thrilling escapades in Disney cat movies to the hilarious antics in cartoon cat movies, each film offers a unique glimpse into the diverse and fascinating world of cats. These movies not only capture the mischievous and loving nature of cats but also highlight the special bond they share with humans.

This crowd-ranked list, enriched by contributions from movie buffs like you, goes beyond being a simple catalogue of cat movies. It's a celebration of feline-centric cinema, inviting you to explore, vote, and add your favorites. So, whether you're in the mood for animated movies with cats or heart-touching real-life stories, grab some popcorn, snuggle up with your kitty, and enjoy the magic of the best cat movies of all time. Join over 1.5K voters and be sure to vote up your favorites.

  • The Lion King
    1
    Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons, James Earl Jones
    467 votes

    As an iconic animated masterpiece by Disney, this coming-of-age story follows the young lion prince Simba who must find his way back to the pride after his father's tragic death. Along the way, he meets an unforgettable array of characters, including the wise baboon Rafiki, the hilarious meerkat Timon, and the lovable warthog Pumbaa. With its powerful themes of courage, loyalty, and redemption, it has become a timeless classic that resonates with audiences around the world.

  • The Aristocats
    2
    Phil Harris, Eva Gabor, Sterling Holloway
    516 votes

    Featuring the charming tale of a high-society feline family, this animated classic follows Duchess and her three kittens as they navigate their way home after being abandoned by their former butler. With the help of an alley cat named Thomas O'Malley and a band of jazz-loving cats, the film showcases the importance of family, friendship, and music. As one of Disney's most beloved creations, it continues to delight audiences with its toe-tapping tunes and heartwarming adventure.

  • Oliver & Company
    3
    Joey Lawrence, Bette Midler, Billy Joel
    326 votes

    This musical take on the Charles Dickens novel Oliver Twist centers around a stray kitten named Oliver who forms an unlikely friendship with a streetwise dog named Dodger. Set in New York City, the film explores themes of camaraderie, loyalty, and survival in the urban jungle. With its vibrant animation, catchy songs, and memorable characters, it has secured its place as a cherished Disney favorite.

  • Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
    4
    Don Ameche, Michael J. Fox, Sally Field
    321 votes

    In this heartwarming family film, three beloved pets - two dogs and a cat named Sassy - embark on a dangerous cross-country journey to be reunited with their human family. Along the way, they face numerous obstacles and rely on their instincts, courage, and friendship to persevere. As a touching reminder of the unbreakable bond between pets and their owners, it holds a special place in the hearts of countless viewers.

  • The Secret Life of Pets
    5
    Louis C.K., Eric Stonestreet, Kevin Hart
    224 votes

    This hilarious animated comedy delves into the lives of house pets when their owners aren't home, presenting a colorful parade of talking animals and their adventures. At the center of the story is Max, a loyal terrier who must learn to accept the addition of a new dog named Duke into his owner's life. With its engaging plot, witty humor, and relatable themes, it has quickly become a modern classic for animal lovers of all ages.

  • Puss in Boots
    6
    Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis
    322 votes

    This charismatic spin-off from the Shrek franchise stars the swashbuckling feline who quickly became a fan-favorite, capturing audiences with his wit, charm, and swordsmanship. Highlighting Puss's origins and adventures prior to meeting Shrek and Donkey, the film sees him form alliances with the feisty Kitty Softpaws and the clever Humpty Dumpty. Featuring a blend of humor, action, and romance, it has successfully carved out its own unique identity in the animated world.

  • Lady and the Tramp
    7
    Peggy Lee, Barbara Luddy, Larry Roberts
    166 votes

    In this timeless Disney romance, the refined cocker spaniel Lady finds herself falling for the streetwise stray Tramp, overcoming their differences with love and understanding. Although not primarily focused on feline characters, it notably features two villainous Siamese cats named Si and Am, who engage in mischief and contribute to the film's memorable score. With its heartwarming story and iconic spaghetti scene, it remains a cherished favorite among audiences.

  • Milo & Otis
    8
    Kyôko Koizumi
    297 votes

    Originally a Japanese film, this heartwarming tale follows the adventures of a curious kitten named Milo and his loyal pug friend, Otis. The pair become separated during their explorations and must find each other again while facing numerous challenges and obstacles. Narrated by Dudley Moore in the English version, it has become a beloved classic for its touching story, breathtaking scenery, and portrayal of the unbreakable bond between animal friends.

  • The Lion King 1½
    9
    Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella, Julie Kavner
    233 votes

    Meant to be viewed alongside the original Lion King, this midquel explores the events of the first film from the unique perspectives of Timon and Pumbaa. The comedic duo recount their backstory, including how they became friends and their role in helping Simba reclaim his throne, offering new insights into the familiar story. It appeals to fans of the original film with its clever screenplay, laugh-out-loud humor, and fresh take on well-known characters.

  • Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco
    10
    Robert Hays, Kim Greist, Veronica Lauren
    230 votes

    Following the success of its predecessor, this sequel reintroduces the trio of lovable pets - Chance, Shadow, and Sassy - as they embark on yet another perilous journey, this time through the bustling streets of San Francisco. Separated from their owners, they must navigate the urban landscape while making new friends and evading danger. As a testament to the enduring appeal of its characters, it continues to resonate with viewers for its themes of determination and friendship.

  • Bolt
    11
    John Travolta, Miley Cyrus, Susie Essman
    173 votes

    This action-packed animated film features the adventures of a dog named Bolt who, due to his sheltered life as a television star, believes he possesses superpowers. When he accidentally ends up far from home, he teams up with a sassy stray cat named Mittens and a hamster named Rhino to make his way back to his owner. As Bolt learns the meaning of true heroism and the value of friendship, the movie tugs at the heartstrings and keeps audiences engaged with suspenseful action sequences.

  • The Rescuers
    12
    Bob Newhart, Eva Gabor, Geraldine Page
    165 votes

    In this Disney classic, two brave mice, Bianca and Bernard, set out to rescue an orphan girl named Penny who has been kidnapped by the evil Madame Medusa, who receives support from her two conniving pet alligators and a cat named Rufus. Throughout their daring mission, they learn valuable lessons about the power of teamwork and self-sacrifice. Its heartwarming narrative and memorable characters have made it an enduring favorite for generations.

  • That Darn Cat!
    13

    That Darn Cat!

    Hayley Mills, Dean Jones, Dorothy Provine
    125 votes

    This 1997 remake of the original 1965 film puts a modern twist on the story, bringing back the lovable Siamese cat DC and the familiar premise of a kidnapping case. With a fresh cast and updated humor, the film appeals to new audiences while capturing the spirit of the original. Despite mixed reviews, it maintains a dedicated fan base that appreciates its charm and entertaining feline antics.

  • That Darn Cat
    14
    Christina Ricci, Doug E. Doug, Dean Jones
    212 votes

    In this suspenseful family comedy, a mischievous Siamese cat named DC inadvertently becomes involved in a kidnapping case when he discovers the victim being held captive. The young woman manages to attach a plea for help to his collar, leading her FBI-agent neighbor to follow DC's trail while the cat's teenage owner assists in solving the mystery. With its engaging plot, relatable humor, and lovable feline protagonist, it continues to be a popular choice for viewers of all ages.

  • Garfield: The Movie
    15
    Breckin Meyer, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Stephen Tobolowsky
    314 votes

    Based on the beloved comic strip by Jim Davis, this live-action adaptation brings the lazy, lasagna-loving cat Garfield to life through a blend of CGI animation and voice acting by Bill Murray. The story follows Garfield as he sets out to rescue his newfound canine friend, Odie, from a nefarious television host. With its blend of slapstick humor and heartfelt moments, it offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans of the iconic orange tabby.

  • The Cat from Outer Space
    16
    Ken Berry, Sandy Duncan, McLean Stevenson
    206 votes

    This family-friendly sci-fi adventure centers around an alien cat named Zunar-J-5/9 Doric-4-7 who crash-lands on Earth and enlists the help of a scientist to repair his spacecraft. Along the way, they must outwit government agents and sabotage attempts from other hostile forces. Blending humor, suspense, and a touch of intergalactic intrigue, it remains a light-hearted and entertaining choice for viewers of all ages.

  • Two Brothers
    17
    Guy Pearce, Jean-Claude Dreyfus, Freddie Highmore
    164 votes

    Set in the jungles of Southeast Asia, this moving drama tells the story of two tiger cubs, Kumal and Sangha, who are separated from their family after a human intervention. As they grow up in vastly different circumstances - one as a circus performer, the other as a pet to a royal family - fate brings them back together in a climactic battle. With its stunning visuals and poignant portrayal of sibling love, it has earned a place among the most touching and unforgettable animal films.

  • Nine Lives
    18
    Kevin Spacey, Jennifer Garner, Robbie Amell
    175 votes

    This comedic fantasy film stars Kevin Spacey as a workaholic businessman who inexplicably finds himself trapped in the body of a cat named Mr. Fuzzypants. As he learns to navigate his feline form, he must find a way to reconnect with his estranged family and undo his past mistakes. Though met with mixed reviews, it offers family-friendly entertainment and a lighthearted exploration of the importance of balance in one's life.

  • Cats & Dogs
    19
    Jeff Goldblum, Elizabeth Perkins, Miriam Margolyes
    287 votes

    In this family action-comedy, a secret war between cats and dogs is waged beneath the noses of unsuspecting humans. The plot revolves around a determined group of canines who team up to protect a powerful serum from falling into the paws of their feline adversaries. As a blend of live-action, CGI animation, and voice acting, it provides viewers with an amusing and imaginative glimpse into the age-old rivalry between the two species.

  • The Lion King
    20

    The Lion King

    Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor
    98 votes

    This visually stunning live-action adaptation of the 1994 animated classic uses groundbreaking technology to breathe new life into the timeless story of Simba's journey to reclaim his place in the Pride Lands. With an all-star voice cast including Donald Glover, Beyoncé, and James Earl Jones, it introduces a new generation of viewers to the powerful themes of family, courage, and self-discovery. While staying true to the original story, it also incorporates unique elements and updates that keep it fresh and engaging for modern audiences.

  • Born Free
    21
    Virginia McKenna, Bill Travers, Geoffrey Keen
    141 votes

    Based on the true story of Joy and George Adamson, this poignant drama follows the couple's efforts to raise an orphaned lion cub named Elsa in Kenya before reintroducing her to the wild. With its breathtaking cinematography, heartfelt performances, and stirring score, it has become a classic in the realm of wildlife films and serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and vulnerability of nature.

  • Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties
    22
    Bill Murray, Breckin Meyer, Jennifer Love Hewitt
    236 votes

    Sequel to Garfield: The Movie, this adventure-comedy finds the titular orange tabby in England, where he is mistaken for a look-alike royal cat who has inherited a luxurious castle. As Garfield adapts to his new surroundings, a scheming villain aims to steal the feline's newfound fortune. Filled with humor and hijinks, it continues to entertain fans of the lovable comic-strip character.

  • Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore
    23
    James Marsden, Nick Nolte, Christina Applegate
    175 votes

    In this action-packed sequel to Cats & Dogs, the warring factions of canines and felines are forced to put aside their differences to take down a rogue former spy cat named Kitty Galore, whose nefarious plans threaten both human and animal kind. Featuring a blend of live-action, CGI animation, and an all-star voice cast, it delivers family entertainment with plenty of laughs, thrills, and heart.

  • Kiki's Delivery Service
    24
    Kirsten Dunst, Phil Hartman, Debbie Reynolds
    122 votes

    Another captivating Studio Ghibli production, this coming-of-age tale centers on Kiki, a young witch-in-training who sets out to find her place in the world alongside her trusty black cat, Jiji. As Kiki establishes her own delivery service in a seaside town, she must learn to overcome self-doubt and embrace her unique abilities. With its charming characters, lush animation, and uplifting message, it has become a heartfelt favorite for viewers of all ages.

  • Cats
    25
    John Mills, Elaine Paige, John Partridge
    56 votes

    Adapted from Andrew Lloyd Webber's acclaimed musical, this filmed stage production brings the world of the Jellicle Cats to life with dazzling costumes, spectacular set design, and unforgettable performances. As the feline characters compete for a chance to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn, they share their stories through song and dance. Its enchanting blend of fantasy, drama, and emotion has made it a staple in the realm of musical theater and a must-watch for fans of the stage.

  • The Cat Returns
    26

    The Cat Returns

    Chizuru Ikewaki, Yoshihiko Hakamada, Kumiko Okae
    201 votes

    This enchanting anime from Studio Ghibli tells the story of a young girl named Haru who saves a mysterious cat from certain danger, only to discover he is the prince of the Cat Kingdom. As a thank you, the king offers Haru his son's hand in marriage, but she must journey into the magical feline world to decline the proposal and reclaim her own life. Combining whimsy, adventure, and rich visuals, it has become a beloved gem among anime and cat enthusiasts alike.

  • An American Tail
    27
    Cathianne Blore, Laura Carson, Dom DeLuise
    106 votes

    This heart-wrenching animated film follows Fievel Mousekewitz, a young Russian mouse who becomes separated from his family while immigrating to America. In his quest to reunite with his loved ones, he encounters a variety of colorful characters, including the villainous feline duo of Warren T. Rat and his sidekick, Digit. Touching on themes of hope, perseverance, and the immigrant experience, it has become a cherished classic in the world of animation.

  • Marmaduke
    28
    Owen Wilson, Lee Pace, Judy Greer
    46 votes

    Based on the comic strip character, this live-action family comedy follows the adventures of Marmaduke, a lovable Great Dane who moves to California with his family, causing chaos along the way. Although the focus lies predominantly on the canine protagonist, the film also introduces a variety of other animal characters, including a conniving cat named Carlos. With its blend of humor and heart, it offers light entertainment for animal lovers of all ages.

  • The Three Lives of Thomasina
    29
    Patrick McGoohan, Susan Hampshire, Karen Dotrice
    156 votes

    Set in the Scottish Highlands, this Disney film tells the story of Thomasina, a cat who shares a special bond with a young girl named Mary. After a tragic accident, Thomasina is believed to be dead, but she miraculously returns and leads Mary on a journey into the world of ancient Celtic mysticism. Blending drama, fantasy, and adventure, it offers a unique exploration of the human-animal connection.

  • Stuart Little
    30
    Geena Davis, Hugh Laurie, Jonathan Lipnicki
    124 votes

    Based on E.B. White's beloved children's book, this live-action/animated family film introduces the titular mouse who becomes adopted by a loving human family and forms a close bond with their pet cat, Snowbell. As Stuart learns to navigate his new life, he and Snowbell must work together to overcome numerous challenges and protect their home. With its heartwarming story and charming characters, it has become an enduring favorite among viewers young and old.