Best Cat Movies for Kids and Families

Looking for a fun way to entertain your preschooler? Whether you’re snuggling in for a family movie night or adding a playful touch to your lesson plans, cat movies for kids are always a hit with little ones.

I’ve rounded up a list of sweet, silly, and age-appropriate preschool movies starring our favorite furry friends. You’ll find a mix of timeless classics and hidden treasures — all chosen with young children in mind.

So grab some popcorn, cuddle up with your favorite stuffed kitty, and get ready for a few giggles, a little adventure, and plenty of whisker-twitching fun!

From cuddly kittens to adventurous alley cats, these picks are sure to capture your preschooler’s attention and spark a few giggles. Let’s dive in!

Are these movies just for preschoolers?

Not at all! While these cat movies are perfect for preschoolers, many are just as enjoyable for older kids — and even adults. The gentle humor, colorful animation, and heartwarming stories make them great for family viewing.

So whether you’re watching with a toddler, a big sibling, or the whole crew, everyone can enjoy a little whisker-filled fun together.

Cat Movies for Kids

Get ready for a lineup of whisker-twitching fun! These preschool-friendly cat movies are full of gentle laughs, colorful characters, and just the right amount of adventure for little ones.

From classic favorites to delightful surprises, each one is perfect for a cozy family night or a themed classroom treat. Let’s see which furry star will steal the show first!

A Cat’s Life

This gentle, heartwarming film follows a curious kitten named Lou as he leaves the safety of his Paris home for an unforgettable countryside adventure.

Rated PG for mild peril and thematic elements, it’s best suited for older preschoolers or those comfortable with a few suspenseful moments. I chose it because it combines curiosity, empathy, and the beauty of nature in a way that encourages discussion.

In our classroom, Lou’s adventures inspired pretend play and nature-themed storytelling that kept young imaginations lively.

Cats (2018)

This animated adventure follows Blanket, a cautious indoor cat, whose daring son, Cape, sets out to find a legendary feline paradise. When Cape disappears, Blanket must face his fears and venture into the unknown to bring him home.

Rated PG for mild peril and thematic elements, it’s best suited for older preschoolers who can handle a few tense moments. I chose it for its touching themes of bravery, growth, and the bond between parent and child.

In our family, this one sparked living-room adventures where the kids transformed pillows into “mountains” and blankets into “forests” to recreate Cape’s big journey. It’s a wonderful pick if you want a movie that inspires both giggles and imaginative play.

Nine Lives

In this live-action comedy, a workaholic dad finds himself trapped in the body of a family cat after a magical mishap. To return to his human form, he must reconnect with his family and learn what truly matters most.

Rated PG for thematic elements, language, and some rude humor, this one is better for older preschoolers who can handle a few sassy jokes and moments of mild tension. I chose it because it mixes humor and heart, with an underlying message about slowing down and valuing time with loved ones.

In our home, the kids were in stitches over the silly cat antics, and it sparked sweet conversations about what makes a family strong. If your little one loves goofy animal humor with a side of life lessons, this movie delivers.

Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore

In this action-packed sequel, cats and dogs must put aside their age-old rivalry to stop the diabolical Kitty Galore from taking over the world. The mix of live-action and CGI brings to life a hilarious spy adventure with plenty of over-the-top antics.

Rated PG for animal action and humor, it’s best for older preschoolers who enjoy fast-paced stories and don’t mind a few mildly intense moments. I included it because it’s a great choice for families who love a little slapstick comedy alongside teamwork and problem-solving themes.

In our house, this one led to hours of spy play, with kids creating “missions” for their stuffed animals and building elaborate obstacle courses to “save the world.” It’s a fun, silly romp that will keep young viewers giggling and guessing.

Dr. Seuss’ The Cat In The Hat

In this live-action adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ classic, the mischievous Cat shows up at the home of two bored children, turning a dull day into wild, chaotic fun. Bright costumes, over-the-top sets, and plenty of zany antics bring the beloved book to life in a new way.

Rated PG for mild crude humor and language, this one is best for older preschoolers and up, especially those who won’t be unsettled by slapstick chaos or a few silly jokes. I chose it because it’s colorful, fast-paced, and encourages a sense of play — just be prepared for lots of giggles.

In our family, the kids loved comparing the movie to the original book, and it sparked an afternoon of making our own “Cat in the Hat” adventures using paper hats and stuffed animals. It’s a great pick for combining storytime with screen time.

Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank

This animated comedy follows Hank, a down-on-his-luck dog who dreams of becoming a samurai. When he’s sent to protect a village of cats from a ruthless villain, Hank must learn the ways of the warrior — with plenty of silly detours along the way.

Rated PG for action, rude humor, and some language, it’s best for older preschoolers who can handle slapstick battles and fast-paced humor. I picked it because it’s a lively mix of action and comedy with an uplifting message about perseverance and self-belief.

After watching, our kids spent the afternoon creating “samurai training” obstacle courses out of couch cushions and cardboard swords. It’s a fun choice if you’re looking for something that blends adventure, laughs, and a dose of inspiration.

The Barkers: Mind the Cats

In this colorful animated adventure, a lively dog family heads to the countryside for summer vacation, only to meet a mischievous group of cats next door. What starts as playful rivalry quickly turns into a lesson in friendship and teamwork.

Rated G, this movie is perfect for preschoolers of all ages. I chose it because it’s gentle, funny, and filled with relatable moments about making new friends and getting along with others.

In our classroom, the kids loved acting out their own “dogs vs. cats” games afterward, which naturally turned into cooperative play. It’s a sweet pick if you want something lighthearted with a positive message.

Top Cat

Based on the classic Hanna-Barbera cartoon, this animated comedy follows the smooth-talking Top Cat and his gang as they try to save their city from a greedy new police chief. The movie is packed with colorful antics, silly schemes, and plenty of slapstick humor.

Rated PG for mild rude humor, it’s best for older preschoolers who can follow a fast-paced plot and enjoy a few cheeky jokes. I chose it because it brings a nostalgic character to a new generation in a lighthearted, kid-friendly way.

At home, my kids loved pretending to be part of Top Cat’s gang, planning “missions” around the house using toy phones and cardboard “gadgets.” It’s a playful pick that mixes classic cartoon charm with modern animation.

Cats (2019)

In the 2019 adaptation of “Cats,” based on Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical, a star-studded cast brings to life a group of Jellicle cats gathering for the Jellicle Ball, where one cat will be chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer.

As they compete for this honor, they share their stories and struggles, revealing the bonds that unite them.

With stunning visuals and memorable music, “Cats” offers a magical journey into the world of these extraordinary feline characters.

Tom & Jerry

In the “Tom & Jerry” movie, classic animation meets live action in an eye-popping adventure that pushes the iconic characters to new heights. When chaos ensues in the real world, Tom and Jerry must do the unthinkable: work together to save the day.

This thrilling blend of animation and live action promises a fresh take on the beloved duo's timeless antics, as they embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with humor, excitement, and teamwork.

Puss in Boots

This action-packed animated adventure follows the swashbuckling Puss in Boots on a quest to find magical beans, team up with old friends, and outwit a few cunning foes. With its mix of humor, sword fights, and clever one-liners, it’s a lively prequel to the Shrek series.

Rated PG for some adventure action and mild rude humor, it’s best for older preschoolers who can handle fast-paced scenes and playful banter. I included it because Puss is such a charming, witty character who models bravery and resourcefulness in a fun way.

In our family, this one had the kids running around in “boots” (rain boots, of course) and pretending to duel with foam swords. It’s a great pick if you’re looking for something energetic and imaginative that will get little ones moving after the credits roll.

Garfield: The Movie

In this live-action and CGI blend, everyone’s favorite lazy, lasagna-loving cat finds his comfortable life turned upside down when his owner adopts an energetic dog named Odie. When Odie goes missing, Garfield must leave the couch and embark on an adventure to bring him home.

Rated PG for brief mild language, this film works well for most preschoolers, especially those who enjoy lighthearted humor and silly pet antics. I chose it because it’s a gentle introduction to adventure stories, with plenty of laughs and a sweet message about friendship.

After watching, our kids loved pretending to “rescue” stuffed animals and acting out Garfield’s grumpy-but-lovable personality. It’s a cozy, funny pick for a relaxed family movie night.

Spy Cat

This animated adventure stars Marnie, a pampered house cat who dreams of being a secret agent. When she gets the chance to solve a real mystery with a group of unlikely animal friends, Marnie learns that being a hero takes more than just imagination.

Rated PG for mild action and thematic elements, it’s best for older preschoolers who can follow a mystery plot and enjoy a few light suspense moments. I chose it because it blends colorful animation, gentle humor, and teamwork in a way that keeps kids engaged without overwhelming them.

After watching, our kids invented their own “spy missions,” turning the living room into a top-secret headquarters. It’s a fun pick for sparking imaginative play and encouraging problem-solving skills.

The Amazing Maurice

In this witty animated tale, street-smart cat Maurice teams up with a group of talking rats and a clever girl to pull off a series of food heists. But when they stumble into a mysterious town with a dark secret, Maurice must decide if he’s ready to be a true hero.

Rated PG for action, violence, and some language, it’s best for older preschoolers who can follow a twisty plot and handle a few tense scenes. I chose it because it mixes humor, clever storytelling, and teamwork in a way that keeps kids guessing while still feeling lighthearted.

From silly slapstick to heartwarming adventures, these cat-themed movies prove that our feline friends can steal the show in more ways than one. Whether you’re looking for something gentle for a rainy afternoon or a high-energy pick for family movie night, there’s a title here to match your preschooler’s mood and spark their imagination.

So grab a blanket, pop some popcorn, and let your little ones snuggle in for a purr-fectly fun time. And don’t be surprised if, after the credits roll, your living room turns into a stage for their own whisker-twitching adventures.

Tara

Tara is the brains behind Homeschool Preschool, where her journey from preschool and public school teacher to homeschooling mom of three fuels her passion for early childhood education. With a blend of expertise and firsthand experience, Tara’s writings offer practical tips and engaging resources to support families in creating meaningful learning adventures at home.