Disney movies are beloved for their unforgettable characters, and among these, the Cats Of Disney hold a special place in our hearts. From mischievous villains to loyal companions, Disney has created a diverse and fascinating array of feline characters that have captivated audiences for generations. This list explores some of the most iconic and memorable domesticated cats from the world of Disney animation, celebrating their unique personalities and contributions to these timeless stories.
Gideon and Figaro: The Contrasting Cats of Pinocchio
In the classic Disney film Pinocchio, we are introduced to two very different cats: Gideon and Figaro. Figaro is Geppetto’s beloved pet cat, a typical domestic feline full of playful energy and charm. On the other hand, Gideon is an anthropomorphic cat, inexplicably walking upright and acting as the less intelligent sidekick to Honest John. The contrasting designs and roles of Gideon and Figaro add to the whimsical and slightly surreal atmosphere of Pinocchio, making them both memorable cats of Disney.
Gideon and Figaro, memorable cats of Disney's Pinocchio, in a scene from the animated movie.
Lucifer: Cinderella’s Devilishly Delightful Disney Cat Villain
For those who appreciate a good villain, Lucifer from Cinderella is a purr-fect example of a nefarious Disney cat. Named after the Devil himself, Lady Tremaine’s pampered Persian cat lives up to his name with his cruel and cunning nature. Lucifer delights in tormenting Cinderella and Gus, always ready to cause trouble and create obstacles for the kind-hearted protagonist. As a classic Disney villain cat, Lucifer adds a layer of comedic antagonism to the beloved fairytale.
Lucifer the cat, a villainous feline character from Disney's Cinderella, looking sly and mischievous.
Cheshire Cat and Dinah: Alice’s Feline Companions in Wonderland
Alice in Wonderland features not one, but two noteworthy cats of Disney. The Cheshire Cat is perhaps one of the most iconic feline characters in all of literature and animation. With his mysterious riddles, philosophical pronouncements, and ability to disappear at will, leaving only his grin behind, the Cheshire Cat embodies the whimsical and unpredictable nature of Wonderland. In contrast, Dinah is Alice’s sweet and normal pet cat from the real world, representing a sense of comfort and familiarity before Alice tumbles down the rabbit hole. Dinah serves as a grounding element before Alice enters the fantastical world, while the Cheshire Cat is pure Wonderland magic.
Siamese Cats: An Underrated Duo in Lady and the Tramp
The Siamese cats from Lady and the Tramp are a brief but memorable inclusion in the list of Disney cats. Known for their distinctive song and mischievous behavior, Si and Am are brought in by Aunt Sarah and quickly cause chaos in the tranquil home of Lady. While their appearance is relatively short, their song and stereotypical portrayal have made them a somewhat controversial, yet undeniably canon, part of Disney’s feline family.
Siamese cats Si and Am from Disney's Lady and the Tramp, singing their iconic song in a scene from the movie.
Madam Mim as a Cat: A Shapeshifting Feline in The Sword in the Stone
Madam Mim, the eccentric and powerful sorceress from The Sword in the Stone, demonstrates her magical prowess by transforming herself into various animals, including a cat. In her duel with Merlin, Mim’s cat form is just one of her many transformations, showcasing her chaotic and unpredictable nature. This shapeshifting cat moment is a fun and quirky addition to Disney’s collection of feline characters.
Madam Mim transformed into a purple cat in Disney's The Sword in the Stone, during her magical duel with Merlin.
Sgt. Tibbs: The Heroic Feline of 101 Dalmatians
Sgt. Tibbs, from 101 Dalmatians, is an often-overlooked hero amongst Disney cats. This brave and resourceful tabby cat plays a crucial role in rescuing the kidnapped Dalmatian puppies from Cruella De Vil’s henchmen, Jasper and Horace. Sgt. Tibbs is the one who bravely infiltrates Cruella’s lair, locates the puppies, and ensures the message reaches the Colonel via the Twilight Bark, proving himself to be a true hero in the puppy rescue mission.
Sgt. Tibbs, the brave cat from Disney's 101 Dalmatians, looking determined and ready for action.
Robin Hood Cat: A Brief Feline Appearance in Nottingham
An extremely obscure, yet still present, Disney cat appears in Robin Hood. During the folk dance scene in Nottingham, a fleeting glimpse reveals a cat playing a kazoo or similar instrument. This quick cameo, while easily missed, confirms the presence of cats even in the animal-populated world of Robin Hood. It’s a fun Easter egg for dedicated Disney cat enthusiasts.
A cat playing a kazoo in the folk dance scene of Disney's Robin Hood, a very obscure Disney cat character.
Aristocats Cats: The Ultimate Disney Feline Ensemble
The Aristocats is undoubtedly the pinnacle for cats of Disney. This entire movie is a celebration of feline characters, featuring a wide array of cats with distinct personalities and musical talents. From the elegant Duchess and her kittens Marie, Berlioz, and Toulouse, to the suave alley cat Thomas O’Malley, and the jazzy Scat Cat and his band (Shun Gon, Hit Cat, Peppo, and Billy Boss), The Aristocats offers a rich tapestry of feline characters. Each cat contributes to the charm and musicality of this Disney classic, making it a must-watch for cat lovers.
The Aristocats, a group of feline characters from the Disney movie of the same name, posing together.
Rufus: The Compassionate Cat from The Rescuers
Rufus, from The Rescuers, stands out as one of the kindest Disney cats. This elderly cat, residing at the orphanage, listens to Penny’s woes and shares her sadness with Bernard and Bianca. Rufus provides comfort and crucial information to the rescue mice, highlighting his gentle nature and compassionate heart. He is a heartwarming example of a benevolent Disney feline.
Rufus and Penny from Disney's The Rescuers, a kind cat comforting a sad little girl.
Felicia: Ratigan’s Formidable Feline Henchwoman in The Great Mouse Detective
Felicia, from The Great Mouse Detective, is a large and intimidating cat serving as Professor Ratigan’s henchwoman. Often used to scare and eliminate Ratigan’s enemies (and sometimes his allies when they displease him), Felicia is a menacing and imposing feline figure. Her size and ruthless nature make her a memorable, if somewhat terrifying, Disney cat.
Felicia the cat, Professor Ratigan's large and intimidating feline henchwoman from Disney's The Great Mouse Detective.
Oliver: The Adorable Orange Hero of Oliver & Company
Oliver, the protagonist of Oliver & Company, is a plucky and endearing orange tabby kitten. Lost and alone in New York City, Oliver finds himself navigating the streets and joining a gang of dogs led by Dodger. His journey of self-discovery and finding a loving home is the heart of Oliver & Company, making him a beloved and relatable Disney cat character.
Oliver, the adorable orange tabby kitten protagonist of Disney's Oliver & Company, looking curious and adventurous.
Yzma as a Cat: A Hilarious Transformation in The Emperor’s New Groove
Yzma, the villainous sorceress from The Emperor’s New Groove, undergoes a comical transformation into a cat. Accidentally drinking a potion, Yzma’s feline form leads to one of the film’s most hilarious scenes, especially when she discovers her new meow-like voice. Yzma’s cat transformation is a memorable and funny addition to Disney’s repertoire of cat characters.
Yzma transformed into a cat in Disney's The Emperor's New Groove, looking surprised and realizing she has a meow voice.
Captain Amelia: The Feline Captain of Treasure Planet
Captain Amelia, from Treasure Planet, is a unique and somewhat unconventional Disney cat. As the stern but ultimately kind and capable captain of the R.L.S. Legacy, Amelia is a feline in a humanoid form, showcasing Disney’s creative character design. Her romance with Dr. Doppler, a dog-like alien, further emphasizes the imaginative possibilities of the Treasure Planet universe and its diverse characters, including this feline captain.
Captain Amelia, the feline captain from Disney's Treasure Planet, a strong and competent character.
Mittens: The Sarcastic Street-Smart Cat from Bolt
Mittens, from Bolt, is a sassy and street-smart alley cat. Voiced by Susie Essman, Mittens is cynical and sarcastic, providing a humorous contrast to the naive superhero dog, Bolt. Her reluctant journey with Bolt and her eventual opening up to friendship and affection makes her a well-developed and beloved modern Disney cat.
Mittens, the sarcastic and street-smart cat from Disney's Bolt, looking skeptical but also secretly kind-hearted.
Mr. Whiskers: The ‘Weird Girl’s’ Cat in Frankenweenie
Mr. Whiskers, from Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie, is a non-canon Disney cat, but a delightful inclusion nonetheless. Belonging to ‘Weird Girl,’ Mr. Whiskers is as unique and quirky as his owner. His character design and his role in the stop-motion animated world of Frankenweenie make him a memorable and slightly spooky Disney-adjacent feline.
Mr. Whiskers, the unique cat from Disney's Frankenweenie, a quirky and memorable character in the stop-motion movie.
Mochi: Hiro’s Lovable Feline Companion in Big Hero 6
Mochi, from Big Hero 6, is Hiro Hamada’s fluffy and lovable cat. Mochi serves as a typical pet, sometimes helpful (like when Hiro sneaks Baymax in and out) and sometimes a minor nuisance. His realistic cat behaviors and adorable design make him a relatable and charming addition to the list of cats of Disney, particularly in a more modern Disney setting.
Mochi, Hiro's fluffy cat from Disney's Big Hero 6, looking cute and a bit in the way as Baymax stands nearby.
Disney’s history is rich with a wide variety of cats, each contributing their unique charm and personality to the animated worlds we love. From heroes to villains, sidekicks to main characters, these cats of Disney have left a lasting paw print on cinematic history. Which of these feline stars is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
