Cats have long been a beloved subject in children’s literature, captivating young readers with curiosity, mischief, and charm. From the days of T.S. Eliot to the silly rhymes of Dr. Suess, these books about cats offer unique stories, delightful illustrations, and valuable lessons.
From classic tales to modern adventures, the books listed entertain, inspire, and teach children about friendship, responsibility, and the joy of imagination.
Whether your child is a cat lover or simply enjoys a good story, these books are purr-fect additions to any bookshelf. I promise that’s my only dad joke.
Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats – T. S. Eliot
Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats is a collection of whimsical poems by T. S. Eliot that introduces readers to various quirky feline characters, from the magical Mr. Mistoffelees to the mischievous Macavity. Each poem brings these cats to life with humor, rhythm, and charm, making it a timeless classic.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Children will adore the playful rhymes and imaginative descriptions of each cat. The rhythmic verses make it a joy to read aloud, and the cats’ colorful personalities will spark their creativity and sense of wonder.
What It Teaches:
This book teaches children about the power of imagination and the beauty of poetry. It also encourages them to appreciate the unique traits of individuals, whether human or feline.
Puss in Boots – Eric Metaxas
This retelling of the classic fairy tale follows the clever and resourceful Puss in Boots as he helps his master rise from poverty to wealth using wit, charm, and a pair of magical boots.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will be captivated by Puss’s daring adventures and clever tricks. The story is filled with action, humor, and a touch of magic, making it an engaging read for young audiences.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about the value of cleverness, loyalty, and perseverance. It also highlights the importance of using one’s talents to help others.
Kitten’s First Full Moon – Kevin Henkes
In this charming picture book, a curious kitten mistakes the full moon for a bowl of milk and embarks on a journey to reach it. Despite her efforts, she learns that some things are not as they seem. I’m pretty sure I read this book to my three daughters at least 100 times.
Why Kids Will Love It:
The simple yet expressive illustrations and the relatable theme of curiosity will resonate with young readers. The kitten’s determination and eventual reward make for a heartwarming story.
What It Teaches:
This book teaches children about perseverance and the importance of trying, even if things don’t go as planned. It also introduces the concept of misunderstanding and learning from mistakes.
Socks – Beverly Cleary
Socks is a mischievous cat who finds his life turned upside down when a new baby arrives in the household. The story follows his journey of adjusting to change and finding his place in the family. This one resonates with my household with four children at home and three cats.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will relate to Socks’s feelings of jealousy and confusion, and they’ll enjoy his humorous antics. The story is both funny and touching, making it a memorable read.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about adapting to change, sharing love, and the importance of family. It also highlights the emotions pets might feel when a new family member arrives.
The Cat in the Hat – Dr. Seuss
Chaos ensues when the Cat in the Hat arrives at Sally and her brother’s house on a rainy day. With his mischievous companions, Thing 1 and Thing 2, the Cat turns a dull day into an unforgettable adventure.
Why Kids Will Love It:
The playful rhymes, colorful illustrations, and zany antics of the Cat in the Hat make this book a favorite among children. It’s a fun and fast-paced story that keeps kids entertained from start to finish.
What It Teaches:
This book teaches children about the balance between fun and responsibility. It also encourages creativity and imagination while subtly emphasizing the importance of listening to rules.
The Cricket in Times Square – George Selden
This heartwarming tale follows Chester, a country cricket, who finds himself in the bustling Times Square and befriends a cat named Tucker and a mouse named Harry. Together, they navigate the challenges of city life.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Children will be drawn to the unlikely friendship between the cat, mouse, and cricket. The story is filled with adventure, humor, and a touch of magic, making it a captivating read.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about friendship, adaptability, and the value of embracing new experiences. It also highlights the importance of kindness and teamwork.
A Pussycat’s Christmas – Margaret Wise Brown
This festive story follows a curious pussycat as it explores the wonders of Christmas, from twinkling lights to cozy firesides. The book captures the magic and warmth of the holiday season.
Why Kids Will Love It:
The enchanting illustrations and lyrical prose make this book a delightful read during the holiday season. Kids will love following the pussycat’s adventures and discovering the joys of Christmas.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about the joy of discovery and the magic of the holiday season. It also emphasizes the importance of family and togetherness.
Skippyjon Jones – Judith Schachner
Skippyjon Jones is a Siamese cat with a big imagination who believes he’s a Chihuahua superhero. In this series, he goes on wild adventures in his closet-turned-magical world.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will love Skippyjon’s boundless energy and imaginative adventures. The playful language and vibrant illustrations make this book a fun and engaging read.
What It Teaches:
The book encourages creativity and self-expression. It also teaches children about embracing their unique qualities and using their imagination to explore new worlds.
Time Cat – Lloyd Alexander
Gareth, a magical cat, takes his young owner, Jason, on a time-traveling adventure through nine different historical periods, from ancient Egypt to Renaissance Italy.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will be fascinated by the concept of time-traveling and its historical settings. The story is educational and entertaining, making it an excellent read for curious minds.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about history, culture, and the importance of courage and curiosity. It also highlights the bond between humans and animals.
Luis and Tabitha – Stephanie Campisi
Luis, a stray cat, and Tabitha, a pampered house cat, form an unlikely friendship as they navigate the challenges of their different worlds.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will enjoy the contrasting personalities of Luis and Tabitha and the heartwarming friendship that develops between them. The story is both funny and touching.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about empathy, acceptance, and the value of friendship. It also highlights the importance of looking beyond differences.
Cat and Rat: The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac – Ed Young
This beautifully illustrated book retells the Chinese folktale of how the cat and rat became enemies. It explores themes of betrayal and consequences.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will be drawn to the vibrant illustrations and the engaging story. The folktale’s moral lesson is presented in a way that’s accessible and thought-provoking.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about trust, betrayal, and the consequences of one’s actions and introduces them to cultural storytelling.
The Fire Cat – Esther Averill
Pickles, a mischievous cat, dreams of becoming a firehouse cat. With the help of his friends, he learns important lessons about responsibility and bravery.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will root for Pickles as he works to achieve his dream. The story is filled with action, humor, and heartwarming moments.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about perseverance, responsibility, and the importance of helping others. It’s a great story about following your dreams.
Cat in the Manger – Michael Foreman
This Christmas story follows a cat who witnesses the birth of Jesus in a manger. The cat’s perspective adds a unique and touching twist to the classic nativity tale.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will enjoy the cat’s perspective and the beautiful illustrations. The story is a fresh take on a beloved Christmas tradition.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about the meaning of Christmas and the importance of kindness and humility. It’s a heartwarming story for the holiday season.
Three Little Kittens – Tony Ross
This retelling of the classic nursery rhyme follows three little kittens who lose their mittens and must face the consequences.
Why Kids Will Love It:
The playful rhymes and charming illustrations make this book a delightful read. Kids will enjoy the kittens’ antics and the story’s humor.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about responsibility and the importance of taking care of their belongings. It’s a fun and lighthearted lesson in accountability.
Delicious! A Pumpkin Soup Story – Helen Cooper
This story follows a cat, a squirrel, and a duck who must learn to share and work together when their favorite pumpkin dish runs out.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will love the colorful illustrations and the humorous interactions between the characters. The story is both entertaining and relatable.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about sharing, cooperation, and problem-solving. It’s a great lesson in teamwork and compromise.
Best in Show for Rotten Ralph – Jack Gantos
Rotten Ralph, a mischievous cat, enters a cat show but struggles to behave himself. With the help of his owner, Sarah, he learns the importance of good behavior.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will laugh at Ralph’s antics and cheer for him as he tries to win the show. The story is filled with humor and heart.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about the importance of good behavior and the value of second chances. It’s a fun and lighthearted lesson in manners.
Toots the Cat – Karla Kuskin
Toots is a curious and adventurous cat who explores the world around her. The story follows her daily adventures and discoveries.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will enjoy Toots’s playful personality and her sense of wonder. The simple text and charming illustrations make it an excellent read for young children.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about curiosity, exploration, and the joy of discovering new things. It’s a celebration of the world around us.
Hondo & Fabian – Peter McCarty
This story follows Hondo, the dog, and Fabian, the cat, as they go about their day, each having their own adventures while their owner is away.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will love the gentle humor and the contrasting adventures of Hondo and Fabian. The soft illustrations and simple text make it a calming read.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about pets’ different personalities and the joy of everyday moments. It’s a sweet story about companionship.
The Diary of a Killer Cat – Anne Fine
Tuffy the cat narrates his mischievous adventures, including when he accidentally brought a dead bird into the house. The story is told from his humorous perspective.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will laugh at Tuffy’s antics and unique way of seeing the world. The diary format makes the story engaging and relatable.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about responsibility and the challenges of pet ownership. It also highlights the importance of understanding different perspectives.
Widget – Lyn Rossiter McFarland
Widget is a stray dog who finds a home with six cats. He tries to fit in by acting like a cat but eventually learns to embrace his true self.
Why Kids Will Love It:
Kids will enjoy Widget’s humorous attempts to act like a cat and the heartwarming conclusion. The story is both funny and touching.
What It Teaches:
The book teaches children about self-acceptance and the importance of being true to oneself. It’s a great lesson in embracing individuality.
These children’s books about cats offer a wide range of stories, from classic tales to modern adventures. Each book has humor, heart, and valuable lessons, making them perfect for young readers. Whether your child loves cats or simply enjoys a good story, at least a few of these books are sure to become cherished favorites. Happy reading!