27 Cat Picture Books for Kids Who Love Cats
Whether you’re a cat person, a dog person, both, or neither, I bet you would agree that cat books for kids are fabulous.
As a Montessori teacher, I’ve seen how these stories captivate children’s imaginations.
There’s something mystical and majestic about cats and kittens when they are the lead character in a story. They’re cute, that’s for sure, but they’re also independent, curious, smart, and loving. Just like the child in the second plane of development!
While cat picture books are great for people of all ages, they are especially beneficial for elementary-aged kids who love cats. And if you’re looking for a gift for a child who loves cats, you can’t go wrong with one of the books outlined below.
It’s time to explore the world of cat books for kids, in the form of picture books, filled with fun adventures and new words to learn, all while learning in disguise.
27 Cat Picture Books for Kids Who Love Cats
Cat books for kids are always a hit! Try one of these carefully curated cat picture books with the cat-crazed children in your life.
1. Don’t Paint the Cat! by Julie Inserro
Everybody makes mistakes, but it’s how we forgive others, and especially ourselves that counts. That’s the special lesson you’ll find in Don’t Paint the Cat!
Nyla just loves painting. When she runs out of paper she decides to paint the cat. As you can imagine, this act does not go over well with her mother.
A great read to get children thinking about what they are doing and whether they think it’s right or maybe not for the best as Nyla discovered. This diverse picture book about cats is a must-have to teach children boundaries and respect.
2. They All Saw a Cat by Brendan Wenzel
This is one of those captivating cat books for kids that children keep going back to. This story shows a cat moving through its environment from the perspective of a variety of creatures observing it.
I love the subtle way this book shows how perception changes from one individual to the next.
It teaches about different perspectives and opinions, as well as teaching empathy. Students pick up on the idea that the world looks very different to someone who isn’t you.
The idea that there isn’t just one way of looking at the world, that other people have different and valid perspectives, is something we would all do well to learn, regardless of our age.
3. Won Ton: A Cat Tale Told in Haiku by Lee Wardlaw
A charming tale of a wary shelter cat and the boy who takes him home told entirely in haiku. Cats and poetry? Sign me up!
I strongly suggest using this book with your elementary students to study poetry. Not only is it a great resource for anyone’s language curriculum, but it also perfectly captures the essence of cats!
Parts of it are hilarious, parts emotionally powerful, and all of it is educational. The poem, and particularly its ending, is very clever.
Cat lovers of all ages need a copy of this one for their personal cat book collection.
4. Carl the Cantankerous Cat by Donna Paul and Karen Patel
While I might be biased, I have to say, this is one of the best picture books to teach vocabulary, especially when it comes to cat books for kids!
A fabulous story about a mischievous and adorable rescue cat adjusting to his new life as a pampered pet. This picture book is perfect for any learning environment because readers can expand their vocabulary with Carl.
That’s right, this is more than just a fun and engaging read-aloud, it’s also a teaching tool! Readers will add new words to their vocabulary with a variety of advanced words scattered throughout the story and defined in the helpful glossary at the back of the book.
The illustrations are so much fun and will catch the attention of all who read this book.
And in the end, a message of unconditional love transcends the beautiful pages of this lengthy picture book. As a bonus, there is an activity page at the end of the story with great extension activities for children to try.
5. Miss Hazeltine’s Home for Shy and Fearful Cats by Alicia Potter
If you’re looking for a cat book for kids that will make your child laugh, look no further than Miss Hazeltine’s Home for Shy and Fearful Cats.
This hilarious story follows the adventures of a shy cat who is sent to live with Miss Hazeltine.
Miss Hazeltine is an animal lover who has made it her mission to help every cat find a forever home. And she’s more than happy to take in the scaredy-cat from the animal shelter.
The illustrations in this book are simply adorable, and the story is funny enough to keep kids entertained from start to finish. If you’re looking for a cat picture book that will bring a smile to your child’s face, Miss Hazeltine’s Home for Shy and Fearful Cats is a great choice.
7. Who’s That Cat? by Steph Clarkson
This is such a fun cat picture book for kids that will have everyone laughing out loud. The story follows a cat as it goes through its day doing cat things, including causing a bit of trouble here and there.
It’s great to read with a beautiful rhythmic flow. The pictures are very cute and make readers and listeners smile. And the “twist” at the end. Ah, so very sweet! Another great lesson about unconditional love.
And if you own a cat, you will recognize its antics throughout the pages of this book. Lots of laughs to be shared while reading making this a great book for any cat lover!
8. Cat Problems by Jory John
If you’re looking for a hilariously funny cat book for kids, you have to check out Cat Problems. This book is all about the many different (and often ridiculous) problems that indoor cats face.
From being woken from a 19-hour nap to the lack of wet food, the cat narrator in this book provides plenty of laughs with their disgruntled feelings about life as a cat. The illustrations are delightful, and kids will love following along with the predicaments that felines find themselves in.
This charming tale is one of the finest cat books for kids, designed to enchant feline enthusiasts of all ages and bring a playful smile to readers’ faces.
9. The Cat at Night by Dahlov Ipcar
This book is about a cat and what it does all night long when everyone else is sleeping.
Children will learn simple facts about how cats are nocturnal and can see at night.
The pages alternate between dark, silhouetted nighttime scenes (how we would see it) and lighter, clearer pages that show the same scene the way the cat would see it at night.
I like the unusual spin of showing the same illustration – once in shadow then seeing it through the eyes of a cat at night.
A deftly imagined picture book that compares the world at night as humans see it, versus how cats might see it by way of alternating dual-page spreads of nighttime scenes in blue & black silhouette (human sight) and bright color with black background (cat sight).
10. A Brave Cat by Marianna Coppo
If you’re looking for a cat picture book for kids that is both adorable and inspiring, look no further than A Brave Cat.
This book tells the story of a cat who is not afraid to stand up to danger, inside her home at least.
When faced with dangerous situations this brave cat won’t back down. Readers learn that courage really means believing in yourself. And that’s what cats are all about. They have confidence, well at least they act like it.
The illustrations are adorable, and the story itself will warm your heart. A Brave Cat is perfect for any child who loves cats and wants to feel inspired by them.
11. The Cat Man of Aleppo by Irene Latham & Karim Shamsi-Basha
Explore one of the best cat books for kids, portraying the remarkable story of an extraordinary individual who embodies compassion, love, hope, and humanity amidst adversity.
While Aleppo, Syria is being torn apart by war and people are fleeing, one man stays to care for the abandoned cats. Mohammad’s friends have fled the city, so the cats are now his friends.
As word of his work spreads, donations from around the world pour in. He now has a sanctuary for the cats of Aleppo. While war continues around them, the cats have a safe place just for them.
The book captures the joy of the gentle, polite, and loving people before the war, then shocks us with the horror and grief of war, ending with hope and inspiration.
A great read-aloud for all elementary students, not just those cat lovers!
12. The Bookstore Cat by Cylin Busby
Not only do I love cats, but I also love bookstores and a really good ABC story! And this cat book for kids covers it all.
The Bookstore Cat is adorable, bossy, and cuddly! Within the pages of this book, you’ll discover more words that begin with every letter of the alphabet to describe this multifaceted bookstore cat.
This delightful alphabet-driven storyline is smart and funny.
Based on the Victorian parlor game “The Minister’s Cat”, this book tells the reader about the cat who lives in the books store. The words are a little more complicated than your usual a-z book (major points for X in this one!).
An adorable read about an adorable cat that wears a bow tie that perfectly captures common cat characteristics in both words and pictures.
13. Atticus Caticus by Sarah Maizes
The story of this cat’s rhyming adventure will captivate any audience. Atticus “jumps splat-a-tat-taticus”, and he has a “tummy so fat-ticus”. This book is so funny to read out loud!
The pictures are fantastic and the rhyming is a blast for kids to hear. The repetition even lends itself to being a read-aloud with audience participation.
This book is a great gift for kids just beginning to enjoy picture books with a little story to them.
It’s also perfect for library story times, bedtime reading, and feline friends, this is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for audiences young and old.
14. Rectangle Time by Pamela Paul
This book incorporates all things I find important – cats, books, reading, kids, and reading books to kids!
Rectangle time is one of the happiest times of the day! It’s when a boy and his dad pull out a book (rectangle) and the dad reads the story to the boy.
The cat narrator for this book loves to sit with the two and snuggle during this time.
But what will happen as the boy grows older? Will rectangle time still be a thing? Read to find out!
This is such a cute book about a cat enjoying reading (“rectangle”) time with his boy. It really shows the cat’s personality, and is right on target with reality!
15. Monet’s Cat by Lily Murray
This story features Chika, a white ceramic cat in Claude Monet’s Giverny house.
Chika comes to life and leads Monet on a merry chase through four of his paintings. But things get chaotic as Chika frolics and meanders through Monet’s greatest works.
This story is a delightful introduction to the famous French Impressionist Claude Monet
Inspired by the actual porcelain cat that was prominently displayed in Monet’s studio, this book offers a fun feline perspective and is a great way to teach kids about Monet’s art.
This is a charming story that will help children get interested in Monet and other artists. A delight from beginning to end!
16. 100 Cats: Cute Kitties to Count by Michael Whaite
A wonderfully funny book with so many cats! You’ll find several small cats, but also a few big cats. Actually, all sorts of cats make their appearance in this book and they are all doing something cat-like.
This book is written in rhyme and describes each cat with a word or short phrase, such as “high cat, sly cat, hide away shy cat,” with the descriptors appearing at the described cat’s location. This book is a great supplement to connect readers to the different parts of speech, such as adjectives and prepositions.
This is a delightful addition to your collection of cat books for kids, promising laughter and joy for young readers. Its appeal spans from toddlers to young elementary school children.
BONUS: This is also a great book for kids learning to count to 100 because there really are 100 cats within the pages of this book. Use it as a math activity for elementary students and see the smiles you get!
17. Friend That Cat! An Unofficial Minecraft Story For Early Readers by Anna Kopp
Minecraft, the immensely popular video game, has expanded its universe into captivating stories! This particular story caters to cat lovers, early readers, and Minecraft enthusiasts alike.
Featuring vibrant full-colour illustrations and straightforward, easy-to-read text, this book serves as the perfect introduction to independent reading.
With concise sentences on every page, it aims to capture the attention of reluctant readers and foster a love for storytelling.
As readers follow the characters through their Minecraft escapades, they not only enjoy an exciting adventure but also develop essential reading skills and a sense of confidence in their abilities.
With its blend of vivid imagery and accessible language, this book promises to captivate young readers and fuel their passion for both reading and gaming.
18. Katie the Catsitter by Colleen A.F. Venable
Ok, so this is a graphic novel. But hey, isn’t a graphic novel just a fancy comic strip version of a picture book? That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.
The storyline is imaginative and playful in addition to addressing some real kid issues, such as friends, family budgets, and fitting in, in a sensitive way.
Katie, a 12-year-old strapped for cash, is eager to raise money for summer camp with her best friend. To make money, she tackles odd jobs for her neighbours.
But as she helps out, she discovers the tasks are tougher than expected. Groceries are so heavy to carry and plants have picky watering needs.
Then her mysterious upstairs neighbour asks Katie to take care of her cats. How hard can that be? But this is no ordinary cat situation. There are 217 cats in the apartment!
You’ll love the hilarious graphics of all the things that these cats can do. Any cat lover, adult or tween, will appreciate this book.
19. Yoda: The Story of a Cat and His Kittens by Beth Stern
Here’s a heartwarming tale suitable for both young and old readers alike in our collection of captivating cat books for kids!
Meet Yoda, a special shelter cat with a heart condition, whose journey unfolds in the pages of this charming book. Despite his health challenges, Yoda finds himself welcomed into a loving home, yet still feeling a bit lonely. That is until a surprise arrival changes everything – kittens!
This is a true story about love, resilience, and finding purpose in life. It shows how adopting animals can change the life of an unwanted animal, and it can also change the life of the person who adopted that animal as well.
The best part of this book is that 100% of the author’s proceeds are donated to Bianca’s Furry Friends Feline Adoption Center, a state-of-the-art adoption center for cats and kittens.
20. Little Lola by Julie Saab
Lola, the energetic little cat, woke up ready for excitement!
She planed out her day with typical cat activities like stretching, hiding, and playing games. But when ‘having an adventure’ lands on her list, Lola’s curiosity leads her to an unexpected destination: school!
This book is perfect for children with school jitters.
When kids see Lola’s exciting adventures at school, worries are eased and inspiring young readers to embrace the new experiences that await them.
The simple language and inviting illustrations convey a reassuring message to children: school is an exciting adventure filled with warmth and friendship. This helps young readers easily embrace the idea of going to school.
21. SumoKitty by David Biedrzycki
Meet SumoKitty, a once laid-back feline with a hunger for victory and a score to settle with the mischievous mice in the sumo stable.
Before SumoKitty was SumoKitty, he was a stray cat that was hired to eat the mice at in the sumo stable.
But plenty of mice to eat and easy living made SumoKitty a bit on the slow side. And the mice? Well, they had no respect for him after that.
It is then that our hero decides he needs to show those rodents a thing or two about a thing or two!
By observing the dedication and diligence of Kuma, a renowned professional sumo wrestler, Kitty undergoes a remarkable transformation, emerging as the powerful SumoKitty!
Cat-loving kids will want to read this heartwarming story about never giving up.
22. Cat Ladies by Susi Schaefer
This is a tale about a pampered cat named Princess who has four owners. In typical cat fashion, Princess believes she is caring for Millie, Molly, Merthel, and Meridl.
As Princess tends to her perceived subjects with the regal airs typical of cats, her domain is suddenly disrupted by the arrival of a new “stray” in the household.
This newcomer quickly captures the attention and affection of the ladies, leaving Princess feeling displaced and overlooked.
Caught in a humorous battle for attention and affection, Princess must navigate the dynamics of her multi-owner household and reclaim her rightful place in the hearts of her human companions.
With its witty portrayal of feline behaviour and the unexpected twists of household hierarchy, this delightful picture book offers a fresh and entertaining take on the classic cat-lady stereotype, sure to leave readers of all ages amused and charmed.
Replete with adult humour as well as child-friendly appeal, this terrific tale is as much fun for the adult reading to a kid as it is for the kid being read to.
23. Chester by Mélanie Watt
Prepare for a delightfully amusing journey with adorable picture book!
The story itself is pretty thin but that is because it really is all about Chester. His constant interruptions into the story make him, and his antics, the star of this picture book.
Essentially Chester and the author are fighting for control over the narration of a story about a mouse. Chester is pictured throughout the book crossing out lines, writing his own words.
This book can be used to teach book elements such as dedications and author bios, as Chester does a great job of crossing those out and writing his own. This book is a great way to get learners reading and laughing.
Recommended to anyone who has a cat that thinks they are the center of the universe!
24. Camp Cattitude by Kate Giles
This truly exceptional children’s book not only appeals to children but adults as well.
Inside the pages of this book you’ll find clever puns, engaging characters, and adorable illustrations that will appeal to readers of all ages.
The story delivers a clear message about the importance of kindness in resolving conflicts, offering a valuable moral lesson for young children. It emphasizes that true “cattitude” involves helping others and being kind.
This is a “pawsitively” excellent book!
Both the text and illustrations capture the wonderfully free and mischievous spirit of felines in a fun and eye-catching way.
This picture book will tickle the funny bone of lower elementary students as well as anyone who has ever lived with a cat.
25. My Cat Looks Like My Dad by Theo Lam
Enter the delightful world of feline resemblance with Theo Lam’s charming creation.
Through an incredible paper collage, the author put together an adorable and funny book about the similarities between Dad and his feline companion.
They share an affection for milk and sardines and they both stretch early in the morning and then nap in the afternoon.
The text itself is sparse, letting the illustrations do most of the talking.
It’s effective, with only a basic sentence here and there to prod the story along as the narrator talks about their family.
What puts this book over the edge is the twist at the end. The final spread is adorably surprising, reinforcing that love binds a family unit. This book could be used as a great start to an interesting discussion on what makes a family.
26. Niblet & Ralph by Zachariah OHora
This is a feline twist on The Parent Trap, where cats take center stage in a delightful tale of mistaken identity and heartwarming reunions!
A super cute book about friendship and the power of cats to bring people together, with adorable cat illustrations on almost every page.
The story is very clever and fun to read with children. It also makes kids think, making it a great book for having students make observations and predictions. This book would also be a great compliment to your study of symmetry.
This book provides valuable lessons for children and many teachable moments while still being an enjoyable and engaging read.
27. Me and My Cat? by Satoshi Kitamura
This picture book offers a delightful twist on the classic Freaky Friday tale, where a child and his feline friend magically swap bodies, leading to a series of humorous adventures as they navigate each other’s lives.
Such a fun concept! Nicholas becomes his cat and his cat becomes him. This is a brilliant, colourful, and imaginative book.
Now, if you think that being a cat is easy, you’re deeply mistaken.
What Nicholas soon comes to learn, is that his cat’s life is full of little difficulties, bullies, and a great need for adventure that only brings more challenges. He quickly learns that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
Facial expressions speak volumes, and the sense of kinetic movement and moments caught in a series of ‘snapshots’ will pull in the most diffident listeners. The humour is infectious and the entire premise is well executed.
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BONUS: The Best Ever Cat Fact Coloring Book
Calling all parents and teachers of cat loving kids!
Are you on the hunt for an exciting and educational activity book to captivate your elementary-aged children?
Look no further than The Best Ever Cat Fact Coloring Book!
Packed with over 200 adorable cat illustrations to color and accompanied by 15 fascinating cat facts, this coloring book for kids is not only entertaining but also educational. Spark your child’s curiosity about the world of cats while they enjoy hours of coloring fun.
Don’t miss out on this purr-fect opportunity to combine creativity and learning in one delightful package!
Picture Books Are Great for Elementary-Aged Kids
Picture books with rich vocabulary are often overlooked as resources for elementary students, deemed too childish or simplistic. However, these books offer a wealth of benefits for students from first grade through sixth grade.
They provide a visual narrative that engages young readers and listeners, offering them a tangible understanding of the story’s events.
This hands-on approach aligns perfectly with the Montessori method, fostering curiosity and active learning in students of all ages.
As an upper elementary Montessori teacher, I’ve found immense value in incorporating picture books into my lessons.
Why? Because these books are more than just stories – they’re invitations to explore, catalysts for imagination, and sources of inspiration.
The vibrant illustrations and captivating narratives not only instill positive life lessons but also ignite the inquisitive spirit within young learners.
Why Kids Love Cat Books
Cat-loving elementary students can be found sporting cat shirts, doodling whiskered faces across their notebooks, and crafting elaborate tales starring feline protagonists. These youngsters are often captivated by cat picture books, eagerly devouring stories featuring their favorite furry friends.
But what is it about cats that enthralls young readers so?
For starters, cats possess an enigmatic charm that resonates with children.
Their independent nature, playful antics, and mysterious allure make them fascinating creatures to explore in literature.
On top of that, cat books often weave engaging narratives filled with adventure, humour, and heartwarming moments, drawing readers into captivating worlds where anything is possible.
Furthermore, cats symbolize a sense of comfort and companionship for many children. Whether depicted as mischievous troublemakers or loyal companions, cats often serve as relatable characters that children can empathize with and learn from.
Through the pages of cat books, young readers encounter valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and perseverance, enriching their understanding of the world around them.
In essence, cat books offer a purr-fect blend of entertainment, inspiration, and affection that resonates deeply with elementary-aged children, fostering a lifelong love for reading and an enduring appreciation for our feline friends.
The Wrap-Up: 27 Cat Picture Books for Kids
There’s something special about cat picture books that makes kids love them. Maybe it’s because cats are seen as independent creatures who often do their own thing.
Or maybe it’s because they’re just so adorable, especially when illustrated!
There are many cat picture books for kids who love cats out there.
These books not only feature beautiful illustrations of cats but also capture the essence and personality of these furry creatures.
Like cats, you’ll start by getting one cat book for kids, and then all of sudden before you know it your collection is in the double digits.
And that’s just PURRfect!
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