Cats are beloved animals around the world, and their popularity extends into the realm of Pokémon. The Pokémon universe boasts a diverse array of feline-inspired creatures, ranging from obvious housecat counterparts to more abstract, big cat representations. The lineup of Pokémon cats is quite extensive, encompassing various types and designs, sometimes leading to debates about which Pokémon truly qualify as felines. This guide explores the wonderful world of Pokémon cats, including housecat-like Pokémon, majestic big cats, and even some that spark discussion among fans.
| Meowth & Persian | Alolan Meowth & Persian | Galarian Meowth & Perrserker |
The most iconic Pokémon cats are arguably the Meowth and Persian lines. Meowth, with its coin-like charm and mischievous personality, is the quintessential cat Pokémon, directly inspired by the Japanese lucky cat, Maneki-neko. Its evolution, Persian, exudes elegance and sophistication, solidifying its place as a classic feline in the Pokémon world. The Alolan forms bring a devious and pampered twist, while the Galarian Meowth and Perrserker evolve into a more battle-ready, Viking-like cat, demonstrating the versatility of this feline family.
| Shinx, Luxio, & Luxray | Glameow & Purugly | Purrloin & Liepard |
Beyond the Meowth family, several other Pokémon clearly draw inspiration from domestic cats. The Shinx line, evolving into Luxio and the powerful Luxray, showcases electric-type felines with a wild yet loyal demeanor, reminiscent of lynx or other wild cats. Glameow and Purugly offer a different take, with Glameow being sleek and stylish, while Purugly embraces a more… unique feline aesthetic. Purrloin and Liepard bring a darker, mischievous side to the Pokémon cat archetype, embodying the stealth and cunning often associated with cats.
| Litleo & Pyroar | Espurr & Meowstic | Litten, Torracat, & Incineroar |
The majesty of big cats is also well-represented in Pokémon. Litleo and Pyroar are the embodiment of lions, with Pyroar’s male form sporting a magnificent mane. Espurr and Meowstic, while psychic types, have distinctly feline features and expressions, especially in their ears and tails. The Litten line, evolving into Torracat and the wrestler-like Incineroar, brings a fiery and passionate energy to the feline Pokémon roster, with Incineroar being a popular choice for fans and competitive players alike.
| Raikou | Entei | Suicune |
The Legendary Beasts of Johto – Raikou, Entei, and Suicune – have long been debated as feline or canine. However, many believe they represent different types of big cats. Raikou is often seen as a sabertooth tiger, Entei a lion, and Suicune a leopard or cheetah. Regardless of the debate, their feline features are undeniable, making them powerful and majestic additions to any list of Pokémon cats.
| Eeveelutions | Mewtwo | Mew |
The Eeveelutions are a unique group, often considered fox-like, but some, like Espeon and Umbreon, possess distinct feline qualities. Espeon’s elegant appearance and large ears, and Umbreon’s sleekness and nocturnal nature, lend themselves to feline comparisons. Mew and Mewtwo, the psychic legendaries, also have subtle cat-like features in their faces and postures, adding to the broad spectrum of Pokémon cats.
| Skitty & Delcatty | Landorus Therian | Pumpkaboo |
Some Pokémon have more tenuous, yet interesting, connections to felines. Skitty and Delcatty are undeniably based on house cats, known for their playful and charming nature. Landorus Therian form, while a genie, has a distinctly feline stance and face, perhaps drawing inspiration from big cats. Pumpkaboo, a pumpkin Pokémon, might seem out of place, but its association with Halloween and black cats makes it a quirky, honorary member of the Pokémon cat family.
| Solgaleo | Zeraora | Sprigatito, Floragato, & Meowscarada |
Legendary and mythical Pokémon also contribute to the feline representation. Solgaleo, a majestic lion-like legendary, embodies power and solar energy. Zeraora, a mythical electric type, has a sleek, feline build and fierce appearance. The Sprigatito line, culminating in Meowscarada, brings a modern, magical cat to the forefront, with Meowscarada’s magician theme adding a unique flair to the Pokémon cat archetype.
| Chien-Pao | Hoppip & Skiploom | Electabuzz |
Finally, some Pokémon are debatably feline, yet worth mentioning. Chien-Pao, a weasel-snow leopard hybrid, leans into feline aesthetics with its snow leopard inspiration. The Hoppip line, surprisingly, was initially designed with more cat-like features, according to early concept leaks. Even Electabuzz, while more monstrous, possesses a tiger-like tail, earning it a place in this comprehensive list for those who see the feline resemblance.
| Kotora (Beta Pokémon) |
Lastly, we remember Kotora, a Beta Pokémon that, while never officially released, is clearly a tiger cub. Kotora remains a fan-favorite and a testament to the many feline inspirations within the Pokémon design process. From domestic shorthairs to legendary beasts, the world of Pokémon is rich with cats of all shapes and sizes, offering something for every feline fan to enjoy.
