The 40+ Best Cat Books for Kids that are Purr-fect!
Looking for the Purrrr-fect Book?
The next best thing to playing with a cat is reading all about them! We’ve compiled a list of cat books for kids that are sure to be the cat’s meow, even for reluctant readers!
For decades, books on cats have excited & enthralled young readers. Everyone knows that cats are the best (unless you’re a dog person, in which case check out these dog books we paws-itively love!).
In this list of the best cat books, you'll find timeless children's books as well as new favorites in the cat books genre. From picture books to chapter books, every kid can get in on these cats’ adventures.
1. 100 Cats by Michael Whaite
This laugh-out-loud picture book is a fun read-aloud of a rhyming romp of cool cats in silly scenarios. The purrfect sequel to the award-winning 100 Dogs! My son can’t get enough of this book - he’s 18m old and has his favorite kitty cat. This book was a godsend as there aren’t many books about cats and the images are lovely. My husband and I find it entertaining as do our adult friends. – Amazon review by Andrew H.
Goodreads Rating: 4.39
Ages: Baby - 2 years
Best Cat Books For Babies & Toddlers (0-2 Years Old)
2. Baby Touch and Feel Kittens by DK
Baby Touch and Feel: Kittens is an interactive and fun way to help young children learn not only words but shapes and textures too. Bold, bright pictures and colorful illustrations will be more than enough to keep your baby’s attention. The DK board books are a perfect first book for preschoolers and make for an ideal baby gift. Bought this for my 11 month old who loves our car. He loves this book and gives the kittens kisses. He also enjoys feeling the ones with furry bits. – Amazon review by Enielle
Goodreads Rating: 3.52
Ages: Baby - 2 years
3. Kitten’s First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes
This acclaimed modern classic about a kitten, the moon, and a bowl of milk was awarded the Caldecott Medal and was a New York Times Best Illustrated Book. This sturdy board book edition is perfect for little hands! Purchased this as a Christmas gift for my 2 1/2-year-old and she has asked for it every night for months. It’s such a lovely story and I find that I enjoy it even after the 60th read! – Amazon review by Vera D.
Goodreads Rating: 4.09
Ages: 1 – 3 years
4. Stack the Cats by Susie Ghahremani
One cat sleeps. Two cats play. Three cats stack! Cats of all shapes and sizes scamper, stretch and yawn across the pages of this adorable counting book. Purchased as a gift and it has been loved so much that the spine is coming apart! Very cute, creative, and colorful. Amazon review by toriicat
Goodreads Rating: 3.92
Ages: Baby - 2 years
5. Who’s That Cat? by Steph Clarkson
Giggle together as you & your kids follow the funny misadventures of a quirky cat and her silly habits. Who's that Cat is sure to become a new family favorite for little cat lovers everywhere. I bought this book for my daughter's birthday. It's a fun read, and our cat really seemed to enjoy it too! – Amazon review by Chanel A.
Goodreads Rating: 4.07
Ages: 1 – 3 years
6. The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss
A dreary day turns into a wild romp when this beloved story introduces readers to the Cat in the Hat and his troublemaking friends, Thing 1 and Thing 2. This classic picture book is a favorite among kids, parents, and teachers using simple words and basic rhyme to encourage and delight beginning readers. My Granddaughter is in love with the Dr. Seuss books. She loves me to read & Reread to her. She’s reading by memory now. – Amazon review by Ann D.
Goodreads Rating: 4.43
Ages: 2 – 6 years
Best Cat Books for Kindergarten (for 3-5 year old)
7. They All Saw A Cat by Brendan Wenzel
New York Times bestseller and Caldecott Medal winner They All Saw a Cat is a charming read-aloud that invites kids and parents to celebrate the concepts of observation, curiosity, and imagination. Wenzel has also illustrated a number of other picture books focused on animals and nature. I gifted this book and they really enjoyed the illustrations in this book and it really meant a lot to the child’s parents who love cats. – Amazon review by Kimary42
Goodreads Rating: 4.10
Ages: 2 – 5 years
8. Pete the Cat I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin
I Love My White Shoes is the first in the beloved Pete the Cat bestselling series! This one is great for all ages. Singing along to the songs and reading with an “attitude” is fun for the little ones when an adult reads aloud. The illustrations are great for all ages and the vocabulary is fun for early readers. I bought this for five-year-olds, but all my students from 2-8 years old all love it and even adults think it’s fun. – Amazon review by B.R. Olmstead
Goodreads Rating: 4.33
Ages: 2 – 5 years
9. Millions of Cats by Wanda Gág
An American classic with a refrain that millions of kids love to chant: “Hundreds of cats, thousands of cats, millions and billions and trillions of cats.” This is a book I read to my children and now am reading to my grandchildren. It is a delightful simple tale, very charming and sweet. – Amazon review by Lady who knits
Goodreads Rating: 4.08
Ages: 2 – 6 years
10. If You Give a Cat a Cupcake by Laura Numeroff
If you give a cat a cupcake, he'll ask for some sprinkles to go with it. When you give him the sprinkles, he might spill some on the floor. Cleaning up will make him hot, so you'll give him a bathing suit ... Written in the tradition of the bestselling If You Give series If You Give a Cat a Cupcake will show everyone that Cat is where it's at! This book was purchased for my four-year-old nephew who loved the story so much he carried it around with him and reread it several times even within the same day. – Amazon review by Cate G.
Goodreads Rating: 4.20
Ages: 2 – 5 years
11. Chester by Melanie Watt
This series of clever stories by Melanie Watt ... I mean her pet cat, Chester, are fun, clever, and laugh-out-loud hilarious for kids and parents alike. This book was funnier than I could have imagined. Chester is funny, and cheeky but brilliant. Such a fantastic idea for a book! Very unique! – An Amazon-verified review
Goodreads Rating: 4.21
Ages: 3 – 6 years
12. Mog the Forgetful Cat by Judith Kerr
Without a doubt, Mog is everyone’s favorite family cat and has been delighting children with her antics for more than 30 years. This is one of 22 cute books in the series. I love, love, love Judith Kerr and wanted my three-and-a-half-year-old son to love her books too. This is a really fun and funny one that he enjoys reading with mum and dad. – Amazon review by FormerlyA.
Goodreads Rating: 4.32
Ages: 2 – 5 years
13. Splat the Cat I Scream for Ice Cream by Rob S
Splat and his class go on a field trip to an ice cream factory in this delectable I Can Read book from New York Times bestselling author-artist Rob Scotton. Lovely little story! My 3-year-old loved it! The illustrations are beautiful! Would recommend for children 5+ if they are learning to read by themselves, but perfect for younger kids for a bedtime story! – Amazon review by Jules
Goodreads Rating: 4.34
Ages: 3 – 6 years
14. The Bookshop Cat by Cindy Wume
A joyous and dazzlingly original picture book about a beloved bookshop cat, the power of reading and the importance of family and community, from the talented Cindy Wume. Such lovely illustrations and nice story. – Amazon review by Lena
Goodreads Rating: 4.08
Ages: 3 – 6 years
15. Tabby McTat, the Musical Cat by Julia Donaldson
Tabby McTat loves his life on the streets with his owner, Fred, singing (and caterwauling) for coins that people throw in Fred's hat. But one day, Fred is in an accident, and the two are separated! Will Tabby and Fred find their way back to each other? Julia Donaldson is my daughter’s favorite author. Tabby McTat the Snail and Whale, And Zog are 3 of her favorite bedtime reads! The rhyme is amazing and the stories are so clever! The art of Axel Schefler is equally engaging! – Amazon verified review
Goodreads Rating: 4.11
Ages: 2 – 5 years
16. Skippyjon Jones by Judy Schachner
Skippyjon Jones is no ordinary kitten. Oh, no. . . .He's actually El Skippito, a great sword fighter ready to battle banditos the world over! With a little imagination and a whole lot of fun, this frisky cat dons a mask and cape and takes on a bad bumble-beeto to save the day. Skippy John is one of my kid's favorite characters. This is a must-read for children of all ages! – Amazon review by Newbiecruiser
Goodreads Rating: 4.22
Ages: 2 – 6 years
17. Yoda: The Story of a Cat and His Kittens by Beth Stern
This is the true story of Yoda, a very special cat—and adorable Instagram sensation—rescued by Beth and Howard Stern. When Beth first met Yoda at the animal shelter, he was skinny and his fur was matted. Now he’s happy, fluffy, and very, very busy as helps to care for foster kittens and makes them feel safe. I love this story. So inspirational. Yoda keeps going because of love. I bought this as a Christmas present for my granddaughter. I can't wait to read it with her. NSAL is a great organization for the proceeds to go to. Save the kitties! – Amazon review by Grandmabobbi
Goodreads Rating: 4.15
Ages: 3 – 7 years
18. Miss Hazeltine’s Home for Shy and Fearful Cats by Alicia Potter
Miss Hazeltine is opening a very special school for shy and fearful cats. Filled with adorable illustrations, Miss Hazeltine’s Home for Shy and Fearful Cats is a story that’s perfect for shy and fearful children as it helps them face scary situations and accepts them just as they are. My daughter loves cats, so I ordered this book and was very pleasantly surprised. The story revolves around Miss Hazeltine's home for cats who have different problems. I won't spoil it for you, but the ending teaches a lesson to children in a non-preachy way. – Amazon review by Hayley
Goodreads Rating: 4.25
Ages: 6 – 8 years
Best Cat Books for Early Readers (for 6-7 year old)
19. Socks by Beverly Cleary
Newbery Medal-winning author Beverly Cleary charms readers with yet another lovable character—Socks, a jealous cat who must learn to share his owners with their new baby. I had to buy another copy because our previous copy was falling apart. I can’t count how many times we have read it as a family. The last chapter is the best! – Amazon review by Ann
Goodreads Rating: 3.94
Ages: 6 – 9 years
20. Negative Cat by Sophie Blackall
Two-time Caldecott winner Sophie Blackall spins a winning tale about Max, a feline whose behavior doesn't win any raves, except the boy who believes in him and finds a way to turn a negative into a positive. Purchased this book after seeing it at a local bookstore. I am so glad I purchased this book! We are a family that loves our feline friends! The storyline is adorable; about a boy who really wants a furry friend and when he finally adopts a cat, it's not as he pictured it would be. – Amazon review by Elizabeth B.
Goodreads Rating: 4.12
Ages: 4 – 8 years
21. Spot the Cat by Henry Cole
Simple and stunning images tell the story of a cute cat named Spot as he weaves his way in and out of a city in this wordless picture book from award-winning author-illustrator Henry Cole. This is really a children's book, but it's all in black and white and will be used as an adult coloring book as it's also perfect for that purpose. It's on great-quality paper too. It's such a lovely book just to look through and I'm sure that adults will love it as much as children. Each page is fascinating to look at as it's highly detailed and excellent value for what you get. I think this would make an excellent gift. – Amazon review by Stephen G.
Goodreads Rating: 3.94
Ages: 4 – 8 years
22. The Cat Who Wanted to Go Home by Jill Tomlinson
A classic story about a cat in danger of using up all of her nine lives. Filled with gentle humor and comfort, Jill Tomlinson’s animal stories have been enjoyed by children who want to snuggle down with a good read for decades. We love cat/animal stories so this was an easy fit. The fact that it’s a cat trying to get herself back to her family in France across the English Channel is just too sweet. I love the little sprinkling of French words in there too. We enjoyed others in this author's animal story series too. – Amazon review by AMW
Goodreads Rating: 4.03
Ages: 5 – 8 years
23. Wild Kratts Wild Cats! by Chris Kratt
PBS's successful animated show Wild Kratts joins the adventures of zoologists Chris and Martin Kratt as they travel to animal habitats around the globe. In this series, the Wild Kratts go in search of lions, tigers, and felines of all sizes in this leveled reader with stickers! Love the TV series, this book of cats is a nice way to bring the stories to life and coach early readers. – Amazon review by A.E.
Goodreads Rating: 4.13
Ages: 4 – 6 years
24. Bad Kitty Goes to the Vet by Nick Bruel
Bad Kitty Goes to the Vet, the 9th installment of the popular Bad Kitty graphic novel series by Nick Bruel. Chock full of brilliant supporting characters and of course, the crankiest bad kitty you've ever seen. I love this series, both me and my daughter read these almost every night. This one about the cat freaking out about going to the vet is probably my favorite of all of them. It also explains in the middle of the book what a vet does and why kitty needs to go for pet care, which is a plus for kids. – Amazon review by Moose
Goodreads Rating: 4.24
Ages: 6 – 9 years
25. The Book Cat by Polly Faber
This is a classic wartime tale of a (real!) cat who made his home at the Faber offices and decided he'd never leave. Set in war-torn London, charmingly illustrated, and full of heart and verve. Such a sweet heartwarming story of a little cat who is also helping other cats to escape to safety from the sad reality of war. – Amazon review by Siobahn G.
Goodreads Rating: 4.13
Ages: 7 – 9 years
26. Cat Kid Comic Club: A Graphic Novel by Dav Pilkey
This heartfelt, humorous, and thoughtful graphic novel by award-winning author and artist Dav Pilkey will have readers of all ages laughing and motivated to unleash their own creativity. Love reading these comic books with my son. It does have poop joke parts seemed a bit weird to me but it made my kid laugh. Other than that we enjoy reading this book. – Amazon review by Rossana
Goodreads Rating: 4.01
Ages: 7 – 9 years
27. Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate
Crenshaw is a cat. He's large, he's outspoken, and he's imaginary. He has come back into Jackson's life to help him. But is an imaginary friend enough to save this family from losing everything? In her first novel since The One and Only Ivan, winner of the Newbery Medal, Katherine Applegate delivers an unforgettable and magical story about family, friendship, and resilience. Great book about teaching young children about homelessness and poverty. Very well written. Great characters that children relate to and can empathize with. - Amazon review by Cadame
Goodreads Rating: 3.98
Ages: 8 – 10 years
Best Cat Books for Growing Readers (for 8-9 year olds)
28. Ottoline and the Yellow Cat by Chris Riddell
An exciting new character-based miniseries for young readers. Introducing Miss Ottoline Brown, an exceptionally inquisitive mistress of disguise, and her partner in crime, Mr. Munroe. My daughter is a reluctant reader, but we picked this book up in the middle of last year and it has become a favorite. She has re-read it several times, and when she had to pick a book to donate to other kids her age this was top of her list. Don't be fooled by the layout, it is a clever read. I probably enjoyed it as much as she did. Highly recommended. – Amazon review by Sarah S.
Goodreads Rating: 4.11
Ages: 7 – 11 years
29. How to Speak Cat: A Guide to Decoding Cat Language By Gary Weitzman D.V.M. and Aline Newman
With veterinarian expert Dr. Gary Weitzman as guide, this fun book helps kids understand what cats are trying to communicate by their body language and behavior. Full of insights, expert advice, and real-life cat scenarios, your child will soon learn what each meow and flick of the tail means! Bought this for my 9-year-old daughter and she loves it. She’s learning (and teaching me) a whole lot about pet care. Nicely written and lovely pictures/format. – Verified Amazon review
Goodreads Rating: 4.14
Ages: 8 – 11 years
30. A Cat’s Guide to the Night Sky by Stuart Atkinson
In the company of Felicity the cat, discover the phases of the moon, the constellations and how to spot the Northern Lights and the Milky Way. This beautiful, fun book will introduce you to the beauty of the night sky and show you the stars like you've never seen them before. This book is wonderful. My seven-year-old’s imagination has rocketed with this book. She has learnt so much and has been teaching us about space! We’ll be taking it camping so we can stargaze. Can’t recommend this book highly enough. – Verified Amazon review
Goodreads Rating: 4.40
Ages: 7 – 9 years
31. To Be a Cat by Matt Haig
When Barney’s feline fantasy of becoming a cat comes true, the fur starts flying in this darkly hilarious and heartwarming tale. My 10 yr old loved this book, he couldn't put it down until he finished it! I'm trying to get my 8 yr old to read it too! – Amazon review by Miriam
Goodreads Rating: 4.04
Ages: 8 – 12 years
32. Dewey the Library Cat by Vicki Myron and Bret Witter
Abandoned in a library book drop slot in the dead of winter, this remarkable kitten miraculously endured the coldest night of the year. Dewey Readmore Books, as he became known, quickly embraced his home inside Spencer's local library, charming the struggling small town's library-goers, young and old. This is a middle-grade adaptation of the Grand Central bestseller Dewey. Read this book and read it to the kids! Just trust me on this one. You’re welcome! – Amazon review by Ruthie T.
Goodreads Rating: 3.85
Ages: 8+ years
33. When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller
Winner of the Newbery Medal. Would you make a deal with a magical tiger? This uplifting story brings Korean folklore to life as a girl goes on a quest to unlock the power of stories and save her grandmother. Bought and read it to my 10-year-old. A book that underscores the value of identity. Tricky topic, deftly handled. Outstanding! Amazon review by Sreenesh
Goodreads Rating: 4.16
Ages: 9+ years
Best Cat Books for Tweens (for 10-12 year olds)
34. Cats vs. Robots by Margaret Stohl
#1 New York Times bestselling author Margaret Stohl and Lewis Peterson’s hilarious middle-grade debut has it all: robot overlords, secret feline agents, and earthling humans who are in for a real catastrophe. My 11-year-old grandson said this is a good book. He likes cats and said this and warriors are good books about cats. – Amazon review by Cathy
Goodreads Rating: 3.65
Ages: 8 - 12 years
35. Warriors Into the Wild by Erin Hunter
Epic adventures. Fierce warrior cats. A thrilling fantasy world. It all begins here. join the legion of fans who have made Erin Hunter's Warriors series a number-one national bestseller. I've been trying to get my 12-year son to read for years and he's never shown any interest and thoroughly resisted every time. The person that said if parents read their children read doesn't know what they're talking about. Anyhoo, my son asked for this book. After I picked myself up off the floor I purchased it and he devoured it. He is now on book 3 loving them. Thank you. I've not read them but 5 stars from me. – Amazon review by Miss T.
Goodreads Rating: 4.31
Ages: 8 – 11 years
36. A Street Cat Named Bob by James Bowen
James is a street musician struggling to make ends meet. Bob is a stray cat looking for somewhere warm to sleep. When James and Bob meet, they forge a never-to-be-forgotten special message of friendship that has been charming readers from Thailand to Turkey. A Street Cat Named Bob is an international sensation, landing on the bestseller list in England for 52 consecutive weeks and selling in 26 countries around the world.
Goodreads Rating: 3.97
Ages: 11+
37. Homer’s Odyssey by Gwen Cooper
The last thing Gwen Cooper wanted was another cat. She already had two, not to mention a phenomenally underpaying job and a recently broken heart. Then Gwen’s veterinarian called with a story about a three-week-old eyeless kitten who’d been abandoned. It was love at first sight.
Goodreads Rating: 4.20
Ages: 11+
38. Cat Stories by James Herriot
Cat lovers will cheer this collection of favorite cat tales from Herriot's veterinary practice. Retired after over 50 years in practice, Herriot continues to entertain young and old alike with his storytelling ability. I read and loved all of the Herriot books, some of them more than once. I purchased this book of cat stories by Mr. Herriot for my almost 10-year-old granddaughter who loves, loves, loves cats. I know she'll enjoy it. – Amazon review by Barb
Goodreads Rating: 4.34
Ages: 11+ years
39. Time Cat by Lloyd Alexander
Gareth doesn't have nine lives, but he is definitely not an ordinary cat. For one thing, he can talk. For another, he has magical powers that Jason never dreamed of. This fantastic tale grabs the imagination and takes it far and wide, on the adventure of not one, but nine, amazing lifetimes. This was one of my favorite books as a child. I bought this for my kids to read aloud during our homeschool history time and it’s just as great as I remembered it! – Amazon review by McKenzie
Goodreads Rating: 3.77
Ages: 8 – 12 years
40. Kaspar The Titanic Cat by Michael Morpurgo
I gave this book 5 stars because it is full of secret adventures. Also it includes history about the Titanic. I really liked the characters in it. I would recommend this to anyone who likes adventure stories which lead it into some sad bits. This was the first Morpurgo book I read and it is a really good one to start with. – Amazon review by Pops
Goodreads Rating: 4.16
Ages: 9 – 12 years
41. The Cat Who Came In Off the Roof by Annie Schmidt
Shy reporter Mr. Tibble is close to losing his job because he only writes about cats. But when an act of kindness brings him into contact with the unusual Miss Minou, his luck suddenly begins to change. A charming Dutch classic that withstands the test of time worldwide and will appeal to readers young and old—and dog and cat lovers alike! The book is good, but the movie is so much better: it's charming, very cute and great for kids and adults. The film title is Miss Minoes (Undercover Kitty), a movie from Holland. – Amazon review by kitplanesue
Goodreads Rating: 4.02
Ages: 9 – 12 years
42. Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T.S. Eliot
T.S. Eliot’s lovable cat poems are the inspiration for the iconic musical Cats. His classic and delightful collection of poetry about cats was written for his godchildren and continues to delight children and adults alike. One of my favorite books. This is a brightly colored large format book, to read with children. Lovely pictures of the various cats. – Amazon review by Caroline G.B.
Goodreads Rating: 4.07
Ages: 11+ years
Whether you're a cat person, a dog person, or both or neither, we still think cats make for some great story characters. Felines come in all different shapes and sizes but they have one thing in common … they all ooze personality and attitude! Cats can be cuddly, sneaky, defiant, fierce, lazy, and sometimes downright bad … which leads to some fantastic lessons & stories.
So if you're looking for the Best cat book for cat-loving kids (and even cat owners!), we hope that this list of books will be the cat's meow!