Top 50 Best Anime Cats [Most Popular of All Time]

Anime: Pokémon

While most Pokémon are inspired by real or mythical animals, Meowth stands out as an iconic feline in the "Pokémon" universe. With numerous cat-like Pokémon available, trainers can even form a full cat-themed team for their battles.

What truly sets Team Rocket’s Meowth apart is his ability to speak human language. Always chatty and opinionated, Meowth’s witty remarks make him a memorable character, and his name's similarity to “mouth” seems especially fitting.

Meowth is unusual for a Pokémon in that he walks upright, resembling a humanoid cat more than a typical four-legged feline. He is known for building mecha and often breaking the fourth wall, adding humor and depth to the series.

Accomplished, persistent, and not without his adorable moments, Meowth has secured his place as one of the most beloved and recognizable anime cats of all time.

Anime: Sailor Moon

Artemis and Luna are more than just ordinary cats—they are mysterious extraterrestrial beings from the Planet Mau, cleverly disguised as felines on Earth. Their origins set them apart from the typical pets we see in anime.

Throughout the iconic "Sailor Moon" series, Luna reveals her unique ability to shape-shift and even transforms into a human form, leading to an unexpected romantic subplot with a human man. This story arc adds an intriguing layer to her character.

As the series progresses, fans are delighted by the arrival of a kitten, widely understood to be the charming offspring of Luna and Artemis, highlighting their deep connection.

Artemis and Luna serve as loyal guides and mentors, emphasizing the importance of magical pets for magical girls. Their roles not only provide wisdom and support but also contribute adorable and memorable moments to the series.

Anime: Fruits Basket

Kyo is a high school boy transformed into a cat, capturing the whimsical spirit of the “Fruits Basket” anime. His story is tightly woven into the show’s central curse, where family members are bound by the ancient Chinese Zodiac.

As the Zodiac's outcast, Kyo faces profound isolation and misunderstanding from those around him. Even people closest to him struggle to see past his feline form, leaving Kyo longing for acceptance and frustrated by his fate.

Kyo returns in the anime reboot, delivering just as much charm and complexity as ever. His anger, vulnerability, and unique personality bring a refreshing balance to the story, ensuring he stands out as a beloved, memorable character.

From heartfelt drama to hilarious moments, Kyo's presence is unforgettable—making him undeniably one of the most popular anime cats of all time.

Anime: Fairy Tail

While popular cat characters like Happy and his mother Marl often steal the spotlight, Lucky—the stern, white-furred black cat—deserves his share of recognition. Lucky’s reputation for being strict, loud, and occasionally angry adds a unique dynamic to "Fairy Tail" and enriches the show's cast of feline personalities.

Though his sense of style might not win any fashion awards, Lucky’s loyal fanbase proves he has an undeniable charm. As a caring father, he deepens the emotional narrative and shows that beneath his gruff exterior lies a genuine bond with his family.

"Fairy Tail" continues to captivate audiences worldwide, especially among fans who adore its memorable anime cats.

Anime: The Cat Returns

Baron Humbert von Gikkingen bears an aristocratic name that may seem better suited for nobility than a cat. But this extraordinary feline truly lives up to his title. With impeccable style, unwavering sophistication, and a sense of chivalry and protection, Baron Humbert stands out as a uniquely memorable character in "The Cat Returns." His thoughtful actions and leadership of the Cat Bureau have made him a beloved figure among anime fans everywhere.

Baron's origins are as remarkable as his character. Once a simple statue collecting dust in an antique shop, he is magically brought to life. Although he first appeared in "Whisper of the Heart" (1995), it was in "The Cat Returns" that The Baron truly rose to fame.

Among anime's many feline characters, The Baron remains one of the most enigmatic. Dressed in his iconic white suit and top hat, he embodies a charming anthropomorphism that adds an extra layer of intrigue and appeal to "The Cat Returns."

Anime: Demon Slayer – Kimetsu no Yaiba

In the thrilling world of "Demon Slayer," viewers are introduced to Tamayo, a skilled doctor researching demon blood in hopes of turning the tide against demons. To aid her in this crucial task, Tamayo enlists the help of a faithful demon cat familiar.

Enter Chachamaru, a captivating calico cat with striking patches of brown, black, and white fur. His cute and innocent appearance belies his important—and somewhat mysterious—role in the story.

Chachamaru is often seen carrying a brown box with a red talisman drawn by Yushiro, hinting at his magical abilities. This talisman and box serve a critical purpose, and Chachamaru can even teleport, swiftly delivering collected demon blood to Tamayo after Tanjiro defeats powerful demons.

Without Chachamaru's unique skills and loyalty, Tamayo and Tanjiro would have struggled to gather the evidence needed for their research. Chachamaru’s quiet contribution makes him a memorable and essential presence in the anime’s storyline.

Anime: Doraemon

Doraemon, the iconic robotic cat from the future, is instantly recognizable with his bright blue fur and friendly demeanor. Debuting from the year 2112, he has cemented his place as one of anime’s most beloved feline characters and plays a pivotal role in the "Doraemon" series.

Sent back in time with a mission to help the young and often hapless Noby, Doraemon uses his ingenious '4th Dimensional Secret Gadget Pocket' to produce all sorts of imaginative tools and inventions. These gadgets are central to the show's whimsical adventures and problem-solving escapades.

Despite Doraemon’s efforts, Noby's lack of competence frequently leads to unexpected and comedic mishaps. This dynamic creates much of the series' humor and allows viewers of all ages to enjoy the clever and heartwarming stories that make "Doraemon" timeless.

Anime: Nyan Koi!

Nyamsus is the beloved family cat of the Kousaka household in "Nyan Koi!" With her plump figure and signature red bandanna, she appears ready to turn Junpei's life upside down. While she may initially seem aloof and mischievous, her true motivations are revealed as the story unfolds, adding layers to her character.

Nyamsus holds a significant and well-defined role in the anime, earning the admiration of fans for her unique personality. The series simply wouldn't be the same without her; removing Nyamsus would leave a notable gap that no other character could fill, especially in pivotal scenes.

Her cool, proud demeanor has its reasons, making her an unforgettable and essential member of the cast.

Anime: Kanon

Piro, the adorable stray Siamese cat discovered by Nayuki, truly makes a mark in the anime “Kanon.” After Nayuki brings her home, Piro quickly becomes a beloved member of the Minase Household, charming both characters and viewers alike with her presence and playful antics.

Interestingly, Piro’s name translates to “Fried Pork Bun” in Russian, which only adds to her irresistible appeal and cuteness in the series.

Piro’s storyline features a memorable and emotional arc, particularly when she goes missing—an event that deeply worries both the characters and fans. This touching narrative ensures that Piro stands out as a significant and unforgettable part of “Kanon.”

Anime: My Roommate Is A Cat

Haru Mikazuki stands out not just because of her name—which sounds like a main character’s—but because of her unique story. Haru is a stray tuxedo cat who finds a new life after being adopted by Subaru Mikazuki, the protagonist of "My Roommate Is A Cat."

Her compelling backstory, marked by loss and survival, brings depth and emotional resonance to the series. Haru’s heartfelt journey makes her an essential addition to any list of iconic anime cats.

Sporting her signature red collar, complete with a ribbon and a now-missing bell, Haru’s character development and touching moments showcase some of the best storytelling found in anime feline companions.

Anime: Final Fantasy VII

Few franchises blend anime aesthetics and storytelling quite like "Final Fantasy," and "Final Fantasy VII" is no exception. While technically rooted in gaming, the series' distinctive characters and vibrant world are beloved by anime fans everywhere.

Cait Sith stands out among Cloud’s party for bringing both chaotic humor and unexpected depth to the adventure. His unpredictable antics and playful personality often inject memorable, lighthearted moments into the game's intense storylines.

Armed with a megaphone, Cait Sith commands a giant stuffed Moogle, which he brings to life. As a remote-controlled, plush toy cat, he offers a unique blend of charm and utility—making him a truly unforgettable member of the cast and a deserving spot on any list of the greatest anime cats.

Anime: A Certain Magical Index

"A Certain Magical Index" stands out not only for its magical adventures but also for its heartfelt messages about the importance of pet adoption. In a touching moment, the main character, Index, rescues a stray kitten from a difficult life, introducing us to the beloved feline Sphynx.

There’s a twist, however—Sphynx must be kept a secret inside Toma’s dorm room, leading to a series of amusing and endearing interactions. The dynamic between the characters and Sphynx, whose unusual name only adds to her charm, provides both humor and warmth to the series.

Anime: Fooly Cooly (FLCL)

Takkun, a charming little black cat adopted by Mamimi, stands out as one of the most adorable felines in anime.

His exaggerated, cartoonish proportions perfectly capture the quirky visual style of "FLCL," making fans marvel at how seamlessly he fits within such a unique series.

Takkun’s whimsical movements and expressive body language add to his irresistible appeal. Throughout Mamimi’s life, he serves as a loyal companion. Their touching moments together by the riverbank are especially memorable, as Mamimi cannot have pets at home.

Anime: Fairy Tail

Pantherlily, the fierce yet endearing black cat from “Fairy Tail,” stands out as the First Division Commander of the Magic Militia in the Royal Army. Despite his small size and cute appearance, Pantherlily's status as an Exceed grants him remarkable abilities that make him an indispensable ally.

As a valued member of the renowned Fairy Tail Guild, Pantherlily's reputation precedes him within the anime's vibrant world. His personality tends to be gruff and serious, often showing clear annoyance towards noisy companions—something many can relate to!

Beneath his tough exterior, Pantherlily harbors a secret fear of thunder. However, he has a lighthearted side as well; give him some kiwi fruit, and he'll happily sing praises of its delicious taste, revealing his unexpectedly charming quirks.

Anime: Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions

Chimaera is a memorable cat character from "Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions," cherished for her striking appearance. With distinctive pink angel wings and a permanently attached serpent plush, this quirky cat captures the audience’s attention each time she appears on screen.

Watching Tōka Takanashi, who suffers from cat allergies, interact with Chimaera adds a delightful layer of comedy to the series. Despite Tōka’s sneezing and protests, Chimaera remains utterly unfazed. Near the end of the second season, Chimaera delights fans even more by becoming the proud mother of six adorable kittens.

Her unique traits and memorable moments have undoubtedly secured her spot among the best anime cats of all time.

Anime: Clannad

Although Nanashi, the striped cat from "Clannad," doesn’t have a major role or impact on the overall storyline, he’s still managed to charm anime fans worldwide with his adorable appearance.

Nanashi’s heartwarming connection to the character Misae has captured the affection of many viewers. His innocent expression, sweet smile, and big eyes on a tiny face make him irresistibly cute and a memorable highlight in the series.

Anime: Fairy Tail

Lecter, another memorable Exceed cat from the timeless series “Fairy Tail,” is not just adorable but also a talented Mage. His unique blend of magical skill and feline charm makes him a standout character in the world of anime cats.

With his striking red fur and signature smug expression, Lecter easily garners a dedicated fanbase. Although he’s one of the most arrogant and egotistical felines in the series, this bold personality is part of his undeniable appeal and makes him unforgettable among anime audiences.

His close alliance with Sting and the Sabertooth Guild adds both humor and intrigue to the show’s storylines. Over time, Lecter’s character arc evolves with the plot, and his expressive nature brings plenty of memorable moments to "Fairy Tail."

Anime: The Cat Returns

Muta, though a supporting character in this beloved Studio Ghibli classic, leaves a lasting impression with every scene he’s in. His presence brings comedic charm and memorable moments that instantly won over audiences worldwide.

Fans may recall The Baron, another iconic cat from the film, but Muta stands out as his stout and surly companion at the Cat Bureau. With his large stature and even bigger attitude, Muta manages to capture hearts as the film’s resident grump.

Muta’s sarcastic wit and endless appetite provide a delightful contrast to the story’s gentler elements, earning him a well-deserved spot on our list of best anime cats. Despite his tough exterior, Muta proves to be a loyal friend, especially when it comes time to help Haru in her adventure through the Cat Realm. His development throughout the film is both entertaining and endearing—a must-watch for any anime fan.

Anime: Dragon Ball

Puar is a shape-shifting cat and Yamcha’s loyal companion in the iconic "Dragon Ball" series. Known for unwavering loyalty and devotion, Puar always stands by Yamcha’s side, offering steadfast support through every adventure.

This adorable blue, wide-smiling feline is instantly recognizable and has charmed fans worldwide. Puar's unique ability to transform provides both comic relief and clever solutions, making him a memorable member of the cast.

Despite his innocent appearance, Puar can be crafty when the situation calls for it, and he's been part of many crucial and thrilling moments in the "Dragon Ball" saga. His enduring friendship and resourcefulness truly set him apart among anime cats.

Anime: Sankarea

Bub, the Furuyas' family cat, is no ordinary feline—he plays a unique and memorable role in the anime "Sankarea." The series intricately weaves themes of death and resurrection, using Bub's story as a compelling driving force for the plot.

After a tragic accident, Bub becomes an undead cat, unable to fully return to life. This twist adds depth and supernatural intrigue to the narrative, elevating his character beyond that of a typical pet.

The writers cleverly incorporate resurrection potions and masterfully craft Bub's otherworldly persona, contributing significantly to the charm of the show. Bub stands out as the sole "death-touched" kitty on our list, winning hearts with his adorable undead antics—especially when curling up on Mero Furuya’s head.

Anime: Fairy Tail

We covered Happy from this same anime earlier, but found ourselves wondering ‘Where does he get it from?’ This led us straight to mama-cat, namely Marl.

From her memorable matronly looks to her sweet voice, this cat may be far beyond her kitten years but still exudes innocent charm.

Her kindness and willingness to help often save Happy and Carla from some tight spots. Marl’s compassion was also how Shagotte even flew again.

She is more understanding than others of her kind, namely Exceed, making her more than worth adding to this list of best anime cats.

Anime: Digimon Adventure

Partner with Yagami Hikari in the amazing and well-paced “Digimon Adventure” series, this next cat on our list brings a lot to the table. Her ‘evolutionary’ arc is admirable, more so given the circumstances in which she grew to become Tailmon.

This cat packs a punch, in more ways than one. Her ability to remain consistent and, when required, to retaliate has made her quite the fan favorite. Tailmon is certainly a bona fide anime cat. 

Anime: Aria the Animation

A blue-eyed kitty, serving as a mascot that brings good luck… Fans found this and more in “Aria the Animation”. The President of ‘Aria Company’, Pokoteng seems to have his work cut out for him.

This Aqua breed feline has the skill to comprehend human words. 

Thanks in good part to Akari and Alicia’s attentions, Pokoteng has become one of the most beloved chubby cats in anime. He adores eating, finds himself drawn to President Hime, and is particularly repelled by President Maa.

The latter gives unruly bites on his soft round belly, and he hates it. 

Anime: Poyopoyo Kansatsu Nikki

A round Catto named Poyo rolls onto our list. He can be found in all his rotund glory in the “Poyopoyo Kansatsu Nikki” anime, along with the family who adopted him.

The show is simple and sweet, ferrying viewers into an ‘everyday’ world, one that first originated in the manga created by Rū Tatsuki.

The character Hide is initially averse to this orange kitty but grows to like him as the show progresses. All in all, Poyo has become a household name owing to his high adorability quotient.

The fact that he is the show’s main character is as curious as it is admirable. 

Anime: Azumanga Daioh

Touted to be Sakaki’s main antagonist in the “Azumanga Daioh” anime, this Catto is no walk in the park. We detailed Maya earlier, another sweet cat found in this series. But with Kamineko you get all fangs and no purrs.

His name translates to ‘biting cat’ or ‘evil cat’ in Japanese. Jaws akin to a bear trap and his tendency to keep snapping down on Sakaki each time she tries petting him has been an ongoing laugh-fest in this series.

Who knew something so adorable could prove so villainous?  But that is what makes this anime so adorable and fun to watch.

Anime: Yo-kai Watch

This fierce little orange cat wields fire like no man’s business. It’s adorable watching such a powerhouse kitty-kat sometimes give in to lethargy or simply choose to disregard Nate’s orders.

Play anything from his favorite music group, ‘Next HarMEOWny’, and he’s your friend.

Especially fond of Chocobars, Jibanyan has found a place in fans’ hearts for being determined, adorable, and relatable. That last is thanks to his fanboyish craze for that music group he adores to the point of worship. 

Anime: Pandora Hearts

In what appears to be a well-transcripted alternate version of the famous “Alice In Wonderland” story, the “Pandora Hearts” anime has much worth appreciating.

The Cheshire Cat in this series is based on the original one, of course, but with some major twists. More like ‘twisted’.

This Catto can change into a human and back to cat form again. The anime harbors plenty of dark narratives, which have certainly rubbed off on this kitty.

Driven by aggression and motivated by vengeance, this is one of the darkest cats on our list, and we aren’t referring to his fur. 

Anime: Princess Tutu

A tutor and a cat both rolled into one, Neko is at once annoying and welcome. His obsession with marriage may seem unhealthy at first. Just ask anyone single for a while and they will tell you that the whole idea is a rotten one.

But with Neko, duty comes first, failing which marriage to him should come soon after.

It is ironic and interesting to see him run away when the big moment finds him. He does eventually settle down, though.

The “Princess TuTu” anime may sound strange, but it has a lot of good points working in its favor, one of which is certainly Neko-Sensei. Just watching him on-screen will make fans giggle with delight. 

Anime: The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.: Reawakened

A fancy name for an otherwise straightforward anime, this series gave the world a clichéd cat but one that is still a favorite among anime pet lovers.

One of the main characters, Saiki, can read the kitty’s mind. Through him, viewers experience the high and mighty attitude of this Catto who is always attempting to manipulate someone for something or other. 

Used to get all the attention, and then some, Saiki’s don’t-care stance often irks Anpu. Their interactions make for some funny moments in the show. At the end of the day, this cat plays diverse roles in Saiki’s life, from protector to wingman. 

Anime: Re: Zero

Carefree pseudo-spirit Puck serves as a protector to Emilia, who’s one of the characters in the “Re: Zero” anime movie.

The way Puck jokes around in the company of Subaru and Beatrice adds to her endearment value. But when this cat turns angry, she might give The Hulk a run for his smashes. 

This kitty is, canonically speaking, quite the powerhouse. It would have been a gross under-use of such potential if the writers failed to tap into this.

Puck, despite his cute-sounding name and adorable feline features, is every bit as deadly as his jungle cousins. 

Anime: Azumanga Daioh

Sasaki has terrible luck with cats, worse when you consider that she gets bitten by them every time she tries to pet one. In the “Azumanga Daioh” anime, we even see a crazy cat called Kamineko (more on him later) unhinge its jaw to give Sasaki big painful bites. 

But one cat stands out from the bite-worthy crowd, and that’s Maya. Sasaki finds this cute kitty during a trip to Okinawa. Ironic, Maya happens to be a wild cat but one that is uncommonly comfortable with Sasaki getting close to her.

This Catto even follows the protagonist back home, thereby becoming an important element of the series. 

Anime: Prince of Tennis

Setting high cuteness standards for all anime cats, Karupin deserves recognition just for sheer adorability. Ryoma and he love each other so much that it becomes hard not to want something like that for ourselves.

This Catto adores his toys so much that he follows any characters who go carrying one of his playtime favorites.

Cuddle buddies have seen nothing until they witness Karupi and Ryoma catching a snooze in some of several amazing moments in the “Prince of Tennis” anime. 

Anime: Ghost Stories

In the real world, you skip things like summoning demons or accidentally getting your pet kitty possessed with one.

The “Ghost Stories” anime certainly lives up to its name. Kaya the kitty-kat in this show becomes the unwitting victim of an unintentional reverse exorcism, making her one of the show’s most hilarious characters. 

Though grumpy and often on edge, Kaya manages to come across as amusing and worth watching. The English dubbed version of this show sees this kitty tearing several pages out of the potty-mouth book.

Good thing the show came out in the early 2000s when such foul language was not a snowflake’s nightmare. 

Anime: Death Parade

This cat is a lot more important to the series than you might think. And let's just say that it is a lot more interesting as well. 

Residing on Viginti alongside Ginti, Memine is a black cat with green eyes who aids him in his duties as an arbiter.

Despite her feline nature, she showcases remarkable competence in her assigned tasks.

The name "Memine," originating from Latin, meaning "remember," suggests her ability to recall individuals like Mayu, potentially hinting at her present whereabouts.

Memine's appearance features a truncated tail and a bandage wrapped around her right foreleg.

She embodies the characteristics of an obedient, intelligent, playful, and friendly cat.

Acting as Ginti's assistant, she displays a clear understanding of her role in facilitating the execution of their games.

Anime: The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya

What at first appears to be your average stray cat soon becomes something magical. When Haruhi uses Shamisen in a game of her own making, granting him the role of familiar, confusions boil over and leave this kitty with the ability to talk.

Morals and philosophies are often Shamisen’s go-to conversation topics, but this feline with its deep voice and drown-worthy eyes makes a good case for magical anime cats.

He plays a significant role in bridging narratives and has grown into one of “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya” anime’s most beloved characters. 

Anime: Pani Poni Dash

His name quite literally means ‘Cat God’. This divine feline most certainly has powers, ones that he uses in the “Pani Poni Dash” anime to do the most bizarre thing… He stays within vending machines and makes sure all the drinks stay at a particular temperature.

Even when he has to leave the said machine, he finds a replacement to step in and carry on the task. Talk about a dutiful cat!

Changing his fur color also happens to be another of Nekogami-Sama’s powers, and fans see him in a new hue every episode. This show is as strange as it is funny, and has stayed in the hearts and minds of anime fans all over the world. 

Anime: Code Geass

Arthur’s a cat. That’s all. No demonic powers, no shape-shifting, no talking, no magic… Just your average kitty, takin’ it easy. That’s precisely why we wanted to add him to this list.

That, and because we could all do with a break this far into the article, dontchya think?

There was a singular moment in the “Code Geass” anime when Arthur stole Zero’s mask and made a run for it. He ran all over the school, giving fans of this anime a glance into what normal cats in real life usually do.

Some interesting cool-cat moments and his invariable tendency to bite Suzaku have further endeared him to viewers.  

Anime: Dragon Ball

You will be forgiven for drawing any parallels to Master Shifu from “Kung Fu Panda”. This next kitty-kat is a veritable kung fu master, as seen in the “Dragon Ball” anime before everything went super-Saiyan.

This immortal cat, residing in a giant tower, is responsible for training the one and only Goku.

To be fair, the battle versus Cell could entirely have been avoided if this cat didn’t give the gang those dratted Senzu beans. But then again, where’s the fun in that? This fuzzy venerable old kitty is definitely “Dragon Ball” canon.

Fans have adored his contributions to the show’s narrative, let alone Goku’s character arc.

Anime: Darker than Black

This cat isn't a cat. It's a person in the disguise of a cat. I know. Kind of terrifying. But here's the story behind it. 

Mao, a Contractor in the series, has undergone various body transformations throughout his experiences. Originally taking refuge within a black cat's body, Mao later shifted into a brown momonga after the cat's demise.

Joining the Syndicate during his time at a university in Moscow, Mao's mission was to investigate Mikhail Pavlichenko's research. Unfortunately, he faced betrayal that resulted in the destruction of his body, trapping his consciousness within the black cat's form.

Driven by anger, Mao launched an attack on Mikhail in his burning laboratory. Since then, he frequently shifts between different animal bodies, often favouring the black cat as his chosen vessel. 

Anime: Kiki’s Delivery Service

The titular protagonist of “Kiki’s Delivery Service” finds herself with a cat companion during her time training to be a witch. Witches and black cats have often gone wand in paw, and these two are more popular than they are clichés.

Some strange magic is afoot with the Japanese and American versions of this show; unintentionally, we bet. Jiji’s character in the Japanese version of the anime is cautious, has a feminine voice, and is as humble as she is adorable.

Quite the contrary takes place in the American version of the show where Jiji proves to be chatty, speaks in a male voice, and is as sarcastic as he is proud. 

It is interesting to note a particular scene difference between the two anime versions. Kiki loses her capability to talk to Jiji in the Japanese version but regains that ability in the American version.

Fans will recall the highly symbolic point made by reputed anime director Hayao Miyazaki (who contributed much to this show). Jiji the cat here symbolizes childhood and innocence. Kiki losing her ability to communicate with Jiji meant she was growing up. 

Anime: Inuyasha

In a series known for showcasing a plethora of demonic creatures, a demon cat seems almost at home. Following Sango around is a diabolical kitty called Kirara who has captured the love and cute admiration of fans everywhere.

Imagine a sweet little kitty that can transform into a flying sabretooth beast called a Nekomata. 

Though this kitty cannot verbally communicate, like some of the other cats on this list, Kirara is still an intimidating creature packed into one small adorable package.

Also, remember those sweet squeaky sounds she made when she was little? There’s certainly more to “Inuyasha” than meets the anime eye, and Kirara is an integral part of the show. 

Anime: Blue Exorcist

When you think about it, cats have so often been associated with demons that it comes as no surprise to see one manifest in anime.

In “Blue Exorcist”, we see precisely such a thing happen in Kuro. Familiar with the show’s main character, Rin Okumura, this cat may seem playful but he is a rather capricious kitty.

Before his days as a familiar, the show reveals a moment when Kuro attacked several people for destroying a shrine that was dedicated to him.

The exorcist Shiro Fujimoto soon made Kuro an offer he couldn’t resist. Naturally, it involved wine. It was heartbreaking and memorable to see how deeply this cat felt for Shiro’s loss when the man passed away.

Before long, Rin and Kuro became a magical companion pair whom fans couldn’t get enough of.   

Anime: Trigun

Yet another black cat seems to have pounced onto our list, and she’s every bit as welcome as the rest of them. In the “Trigun” anime, we see a rather contrary kitty in Kuroneko.

Meaning, she adds nothing of canonical value to the plot but somehow plays a significant role in the show. The number of times she shows up on screen varies but the fact remains that Kuroneko is present in every episode of this anime. 

The cat has a brilliant character task: she adds comic relief where needed, sometimes even enhancing the humor already present in a scene.

Her tension-breaking skills are as golden as the object-shattering capabilities of cats in general. Fans most certainly have appreciated the time this Catto stopped chess cheat Wolfwood. 

Anime: Nichijou - My Ordinary Life

Another unforgettable anime, “Nichijou - My Ordinary Life” sees Sakamoto the Catto being taken in by a caring family. Nano and Hakase are the show’s main characters, but Sakamoto brings his own to the plotline.

Things take a turn for the technological when Hakase crafts Sakamoto a scarf that enables the cat to speak. No magic here, just fictional tech. 

The cat, for all his cutesy looks, then sounded older and demanded respect. It makes for hilarious viewing to see how he’s treated, sometimes with venerability and other times not so much.

The more Sakamoto pretends he is more than a cat, and the more often he does things typically feline, the more fans end up adoring this anime cat. It is pleasant to see him transition from his deplorable former owner to genius inventor Hakase. 

Anime: Bananya and the Curious Bunch

To put it simply, every character in this anime is called Bananya, but a prefix to each name denotes what role each of them plays in their amusing animated community.

The main Catto of the lot is simply called Bananya and, if the merchandise is anything to go by, he’s immensely popular among fans of anime. 

Step aside, Tabby and Elder Bananya, this cat has got everyone’s tongue…wagging while vocalizing its cute-sounding name. His story is well-pursued in the series and has made this anime stand out.

Adorable kitties in cute banana bodies? Sounds weird when you think too much about it, but they’re rather sweet. Sad that the show had to end. 

Anime: Natsume’s Book of Friends

Nyanko-Sensei, or Madara as he’s otherwise called, is not your usual everyday chubby cat. He’s a Youkai and a powerful one at that.

Fans of the anime “Natsume’s Book Of Friends” will know that this Catto is only a chosen form for the Youkai and not an actual kitty in any realistic sense of the word.

He’s also single-minded about getting his paws on the Book itself, owing to its inherent power. 

This probably explains why Nyanko is as condescending as he is self-serving, traits that the meme community has often associated with cats.

In Nyanko-Sensei, fans received a feline that flies and one that can shape-shift.

Nyanko, on occasion, emits a strange light that has proven capable of scaring away other Youkai.

He may seem like a fat Catto, but this one packs incredible strength in its portly form.

He grows fond of Natsume throughout the show and makes us fond of him in return. 

Anime: Chi’s Sweet Home

This next Catto from the anime “Chi’s Sweet Home” apparently enjoys having its name printed big in the show’s title.

Heavily inspired by its manga version, this cat is anime to its core and every bit as adorable. This kitty also has a beautiful storyline.

Taken in by a family, the Stray Chi takes viewers through a sublime narrative that is equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming.

The series itself is renowned for having voluminous episodes, but each one is only around three minutes long.

Suffice it to say, this cat has proven to be quite the scene-stealer. 

Anime: My Neighbor Totoro

This show’s a classic in the anime realm, and the Catbus character Nekobasu (the Japanese word for ‘Catbus’) has become a true pop culture icon.

From spoofs to special mentions and merchandise galore, you’ll find that this kitty is one of the most famous anime cats of all.

Not only have hit TV shows like “The Simpsons” and “Persona” made mention of this cat, but some of you may also be surprised to learn that he inspired the character of Appa in “Avatar: The Last Airbender”.

Seeing this cat do what it does, one immediately recalls the Cheshire Cat from “Alice In Wonderland”, whom the Catbus closely resembles in several regards.

It somehow does not come across as a ripoff, thanks to the genius of anime writers and illustrators. Nekobasu proves enormously helpful to the rest of the gang. 

Anime: Soul Eater

You may have heard of the ‘little black dress’ but have you seen this ‘little black cat’ yet?

In the “Soul Eater” anime, she’s what they call a monster cat, and for good reason.

Do not be misled by its adorable appearance, this kitty can transform into a human at will.

Her outdoor forays may be amusing but cause this Catto to end up upsetting a lot of characters.

Just ask some of the main players in “Soul Eater”, and they’ll tell you that Blair is more witchy than Kitty.

This cat certainly packs some magical abilities, some of which involve the use of pumpkins.

How much more Halloween can you get?

From shooting pumpkin orbs at people to dropping large pumpkins on them, Blair seems to uphold the other side of pet-cat expectations: they can be troublemakers at the best of times. 

Anime: Fairy Tail

We’re not trying to cheat here. Granted, these next two kitties on our list are not technically cats at all.

They are, in essence, magical entities called Exceed that have taken the form of cats.

In the “Fairy Tail” anime, we see so much of the egg-hatched Happy, especially how effortlessly he can fly, talk, speak, and perform magic. 

Buddy to the show’s protagonist, Happy the blue cat is as wacky as anime cats come.

His scenes with Carla (his female feline friend) are great to watch.

Both these furry cats are as captivating as their real-life counterparts.

They make us want to watch their antics all day long. Besides, it’s great hearing him say “Aye Sir!” now and again.