Cat people always look for ways to appreciate their little furry friends, even if those creatures do not return the sentiments. For this reason, I put together a list of the 50 best songs about cats to which you can post your beautiful little pets and have everyone in awe.
The selected songs in this article range from cute, joyful admiration ballads to humorous tracks about the feline animals. I hope not only you but your cats too, like the 50 best songs about cats that we have listed.
Here are the 50 best songs about cats, listed
- Cool for Cats
- The Cat Came Back
- Cat’s in the Cradle
- I Taut I Taw A Puddy Tat
- The Love Cats
- Everybody Wants to Be a Cat
- The Lion Sleeps Tonight
- Pet Me, Poppa,
- Tom Cat
- Nashville Cats
- Cat People (Putting Out Fire)
- Alley Cats
- The Siamese Cat Song
- Cool Cat
- Phenomenal Cat
- I Happen to Like Cats
- Cat On Tin Roof
- What’s New Pussycat?
- Pads, Paws & Claws
- Leave My Kitten Alone
- Cat Scratch Fever
- When He Calls Me Kitten
- Smelly Cat
- My Cat’s Name Is Maceo
- Stray Cat Strut
- The Rum Tum Tugger
- Wild Cats of Kilkenny
- Tom Tom Cats
- Three Cool Cats
- Mr. Mistoffelees
- A Year Of The Cat
- Honky Cat
- Black Cat
- Kitten Got Claws
- The Kitty Cat Song
- Like A Cat
- Kitty
- Cat Food
- Cat House Blues
- Old Black Cat
- Go Little Go Cat
- Tom Cat Goodbye
- Roar
- Cat
- Kitty Kat
- Mirror Maru
- Mungojerrie And Rumpleteazer
- Thomas O’Malley Cat
- The Minister’s Cat
- Scales And Arpeggios
1. Cool for Cats
The British band, Squeeze, released this playful and lighthearted song in 1979. The song in general is about humorous romantic tales of couples, describing in detail the absurd aspects of love and romance.
The comical descriptions of the ups and downs in a relationship are what make this song quirky and a fun listen. The phrase “Cool for Cats” is used to suggest someone smooth and confident in their romantic pursuits.
In short, the song is saying people who have rizz like cats succeed in their romantic life. The song did okay on the charts and in my opinion is severely under-hyped.
2. The Cat Came Back
We all have had that one stray cat who always comes back to us, whether for food or some pets. This folk song, whose famous rendition by Harry S. Miller made it famous, explains the nature of cats who always find a way back home no matter what.
The song paints a humorous narrative about a person who tries to get rid of a rowdy cat. Each time he thinks he has succeeded, the cat comes back, causing more chaos and ruining the owner’s life.
I would recommend you to listen to this song, it will surely put you in a bright mood.
3. Cat’s in the Cradle
Harry Chapin uses the phrase “cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon” as a clever metaphor to describe the relationship of a father and son. The song is about the importance of familial bonds and how their negligence can lead to unpleasant consequences.
The song charted #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 1974 and it sends a very important message. I would suggest you stay far away from this song if you have daddy issues.
4. I Taut I Taw A Puddy Tat
If you have children obsessed with Looney Tunes then you may already know this song by Mel Blanc. The song mimics the voices of Tweety Bird and Sylvester the Cat and it shows the humorous taunting of Tweety to Sylvester.
The playful melody, and the witty lyrics all tie in and make this song attractive for kids. I do have to say, you don’t have to be a child to enjoy this song so do check it out.
5. The Lovecats
Before I start, please check out the music video for this song by The Cure, you will not be disappointed at all. The funky rhythm of this track reminds me of a playful cat, even if the lyrics aren’t about felines in general.
The song is about love and romance, particularly about young love. The song did quite well on the charts and you have to check this masterpiece out right this second!
6. Everybody Wants to Be a Cat
If you have seen the lovely movie, The Aristocats, then you must already know about this song by Floyd Huddleston and Al Rinker. The song is sung in the movie by the Scat Cat and its band.
The themes of the song revolve around the carefree and fun life of felines. How adventurous and spontaneous it is which makes “everyone want to be a cat”. The movie was a hit and this song will forever be one of my favorites.
7. The Lion Sleeps Tonight
This African-inspired song, originally by Soloman Linda, celebrates African nature and animals. It’s about a lion who sleeps peacefully in the jungle which shows a calm and quiet moment in the wilderness.
The song was featured in the famous movie, the Lion King, and chartered #1 on the US Cash Box Top 100
8. Pet Me, Poppa
This song by Frank Loesser is from the musical “Guys and Dolls” and is performed by the character Miss Adelaide. The character expresses a desire for affection from her fiance in this song and it is a very playful song.
The track has a catchy tune and witty, flirtatious lyrics as the character urges her partner to show her some love and affection. It is a fun number and I would recommend you to check it out.
9. Tom Cat
This song by the Rooftop Singers was very famous in 1963 for its folk nature and was a staple in the folk revival era of the band. The song has upbeat melodies which match with the lyrics of the track.
Tom Cat’s adventurous tales and his behavior are the main themes of the song. If you have a playful and wild male cat then you can relate to this song a lot and would love it. So do give it a listen.
10. Nashville Cats
If you are a fan of musicians from Nashville then this song by The Lovin; Spoonful is the one for you. The band wrote this song as a tribute to all of the Nashville singers and the hit records they have released over decades.
The lyrics “there are thirteen hundred and fifty-two guitar pickers in Nashville” showcase the city’s high number of artists and their talent.
11. Cat People (Putting Out Fire)
All the songs so far on this list have been lighthearted but it’s time we talked about David Bowie’s song that leans more towards the darker side. The song was on the soundtrack of the movie “Cat People” and was a marvelous hit.
The lyrics of the song can be interpreted in many different ways, but in my opinion, it’s about inner conflict and the urge to control the primal instincts, the feline urges, of a person. The track fits perfectly well with the feline alter ego of the main character in the movie.
12. Alley Cats
Sometimes, we all just want to escape loneliness and be given attention, like the alley cats. This song by Hot Chip perfectly describes such feelings and if you relate to this then this song is right up your alley (pun intended).
The song is about longing, yearning, and the desire for a connection. The lyrics “I’m just an alley cat, yes, that’s where it’s at” encapsulate the lonely feelings of alley cats that are common amongst humans too.
13. The Siamese Cat Song
If you have Siaseme cats or just love them in general, then this song is for you. The song is by Peggy Lee and is from the animated film “Lady and the Tramp” and is sung by the Siamese cats, Si and Am.
The track shows the playful and mischievous personality of the cats as they scheme together and wreak havoc in the movie. The movie won some accolades and the song is loved by many to this day.
14. Cool Cat
You thought I would write an article on cat songs and not include the legendary hit, Cool Cat, by Queen? No way! The bass work by John Deacon and Freddie’s vocals make this song too iconic to not be on this list.
The track is about the sense of confidence and style in a person and how it makes them exude a cool and calm demeanor, like a cat. The song has millions of views on YouTube and I would urge you to check it out.
15. Phenomenal Cat
We have talked about cool cats now it’s time we talk about phenomenal cats. In this song by the Kinks, a flying cat named Mr. Jones and his adventures are discussed in a dreamy way as the vocals and harmonies of the band do wonders.
The song has a very positive and relaxing effect, hence I would suggest you give it a listen. Some also call it a nursery rhyme so if you have kids then this would be an excellent choice for them as well.
16. I Happen to Like Cats
If you have more than one cat and people make fun of you that you will “die alone with cats” then you should play this song for them. It is an amazing song by Granger Smith who sings about the felines and their cute, quirky behaviors.
The funky beats and the humorous lyrics are genius as they fully showcase the vibe and personality of these furry creatures. I would 100% suggest you stream this song right now.
17. Cat On Tin Roof
Blonde Redhead is an alternative rock band that released Cat On Tin Roof in 1998. The song has a soothing, yet haunting, melody with lyrics that are open to anyone’s interpretation.
The rhythm of this track is unique and the whispering of the singer makes it even more different than other songs. To me, the name of the song seems metaphorical, pointing towards uneasiness and restlessness.
The rest of the interpretation I will leave to your imagination so go ahead and feel free to listen to this song.
18. What’s New Pussycat?
Tom Jones popularized this iconic song that was originally composed by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. If you are hopeful and want to rekindle a past relationship with an ex then this song is for you.
The strong vocals of Jones and the catchy rhythm of the track are lovely for the ears. The “What’s new pussycat?” lyric is like asking your ex “Hey what’s been going on in your life”, something we all have been guilty of wondering.
19. Pads, Paws & Claws
This song by Elvis Costello will not fail to put a smile on your face, trust me. The song describes the physical and emotional aspects of a relationship in a humorous way and you will not be able to keep your smile in when you listen to this.
The cover art for the album, Spike, is very creative and you can see the talent of the singer in this song. The instrumentals and vocals are unique and will keep your attention from wandering elsewhere.
20. Leave My Kitten Alone
Little Willie John is a legend in my eyes for this song alone and when you give it a listen you will understand why I’m saying this. The song is a plea from the singer to leave his “kitten” alone and not hurt her feelings.
The kitten in question is an endearment for his girlfriend, just in case you didn’t catch that. The song was such a hit that even the Beatles recorded a version of it.
21. Cat Scratch Fever
If you love cats and rock music then I have just the right song for you. Ted Nugent released this masterpiece in 1977 and it is about attraction towards women.
The singer uses feline metaphors cleverly to express his passion for a romantic encounter. If you like the description I just gave of this track then you have to check this song out immediately!
22. When He Calls Me Kitten
We just talked about a song in which the singer calls his girlfriend “kitten” and you can say this song is (kind of) a reply from the girlfriend. Kelley Deal sings about longing and desire for love from a lover.
The track encapsulates vulnerability like no other and I urge you to listen to this sultry and emotional song ASAP!
23. Smelly Cat
If you are a lover of the show “Friends” then you must already be familiar with this song that is performed by the character Pheobe Buffay. The song is a playful description of a stinky cat and it’s questionable hygienic habits.
The song gained a lot of popularity, primarily because of the off-beat lyrics and funky beats. It showcases the personality of the character perfectly and is loved by many to this day.
24. My Cat’s Name Is Maceo
This is a rock song by Jane’s Addiction and it’s about a man who adopts a cat and then names it Maceo. The instrumentals on this song are my favorite, the various blends are just superb.
The song describes the love and affection the owner has for his cat. Overall, it’s just a lovely song about the companionship of a person and his feline.
25. Stray Cat Strut
This song by the Stray Cats gives me nostalgia, there’s just something in the vocals and the melody of the song. The guitar riffs and bassline perfectly capture the1050s rock n roll.
The song is about a confident and cool cat who struts around the town with style. I would recommend you check out this lighthearted song, it will put you in a good mood.
26. The Rum Tum Tugger
This song is by Andrew Lloyd Webber and is based on the book “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” and is featured in the musical “Cats”. Rum Tum Tugger is the name of a mischievous cat who is very attention-seeking.
If you have a feline who loves being the center of attention, then this song is perfect for your cat and you should check it out.
27. Wild Cats of Kilkenny
If you like loud music The Pogues made the right track for you. This song is a mixture of Celtic folk and punk rock along with a high-energy foot-stomping rhythm.
This track does not have any lyrics but that’s the beauty of it. If you are Irish then you will like the rowdy and fast-paced vibe of this. I recommend you to listen to this song, it reminds me of the “night crazies” cats get.
28. The Tom Cats
This is another lyric-less track on this list that reminds me of cats and their mischievous personality. The catchy and jolly beats with marvelous guitar riffs make it a musical masterpiece in my eyes.
I recommend you put this funky song on, especially when you need to get some work done. The fast pace of this track will have you energized in no time.
29. Three Cool Cats
This song was originally by The Coasters and later on, was popularized even more by the cover of the Beatles. The “three cool cats” in this song are three cool guys who impress people with their charm.
The song is very upbeat and the melody will have you tapping your foot along to it in no time.
30. Mr. Mistoffelees
Another song from the musical “Cats” by Andrew Llyod Webber. The song is about the character Mr. Mistoffelees who is known as the “Magical Cat of Cats”.
This track is an appreciation of the character and his abilities. This song is one of the most popular ones from this musical and is loved by many.
31. A Year Of The Cat
If you like your music with piano in it then you have to check this number by Al Stewart! The song is about a man who runs into a mysterious woman during the “Year of the Cat” in the Chinese zodiac.
This romantic ballad is lovely and can easily remind you of a lover. The catchy melody mixed with the soothing vocals makes this song even more amazing.
32. Honky Cat
This sweet song by Elton John had to be on our list for many reasons. The song is about a man who loves to play the piano and party and overall is a free-spirited man.
There is no deep, emotional meaning behind this song. It’s just a playful, fun song that is made for people who enjoy life to the fullest. If you think that this is you, then you should stream this hit.
33. Black Cat
I am a huge Janet Jackson enthusiast so of course I was going to include her famous hit on this list. The term “black cat” is used as a metaphor to describe rebellion and danger.
The strong electric guitar riffs and drums make this song the perfect anthem for women who are entering their Reputation era (yes, I am also a Taylor Swift fan). The song received a Grammy nomination so you can imagine its impact.
34. Kittens Got Claws
The desperate meows at the beginning of this iconic song by Whitesnake explain the whole theme of the track. The song is about a desire for passionate romance something we all can relate to.
The hard rock of the band is very prominent in this song and perhaps that is why this song is one of my favorites on this list. I recommend you check it out too if you like rock music!
35. The Kitty Cat Song
This song by The Troggs is about a kitten who reminds the singer about his lover. The lyrics show how the person treats the kitten like a princess but she is always trying to scratch him.
This reminds the guy of his lover as he sings “It’s just like you baby, only wanna hurt me”. The beat of this song is my favorite, along with the accents of the singers.
36. Like A Cat
If you are a K-pop fan, then I got your back as this song by AOA had to be on this list. This song describes the feline personality of girls, drawing parallels between a confident woman and a smug cat.
The catchy beat is enough to get you dancing and don’t worry, you don’t have to know Korean to enjoy this song! The track had over a million digital sales, making it a certified hit.
37. Kitty
This song is by The Presidents of the United States of America, an American rock band, not Joe Biden just to be clear. The song describes a fantasy world where everything is related to cats and I have to say, what a world would that be.
The song ranked #13 on Billboards US Modern Rock Tracks which is not very high. In my opinion, the song deserves a lot more recognition and when you listen to it, you will agree with me too.
38. Cat Food
This single by King Crimson was released in 1970. The style of the band is unique as their songs always have a mix of genres that are never consistent.
I am not a fan of this song as it makes no sense in my head and the ever-changing beat is also not my type. But if you like topics of existentialism then you should check this song out!
39. Cathouse Blues
This song by Stevie Nicks is about feeling like a “silky cat”. The song is open to many interpretations and in my opinion, it’s about a woman who is on her own and this independence led her to be swift like a cat.
The vocals of Stevie with the minimal instrumentals in this song make it a classic in my eyes and I would recommend everybody to check this song out!
40. Old Black Cat
This song by Ian Anderson is about a supernatural old black cat. People have had superstitions about black cats crossing their paths and this song explores that.
The guitar riffs are very catchy and I suggest you check this song out, it is very soothing for the ears.
41. Go Little Go Cat
The rock n roll in this song by the Four Teens will surely brighten up your day and you have to check it out! This song reminds me of the movie Home Alone for some reason, perhaps it is because it matches the vibe of Kevin.
The song in general is about letting loose, like a cat, and having fun.
42. Tom Cat Goodbye
This song by Laura Nyro is quite an interesting one as its lyrics talk about a fictional couple and their love story. The main girl, called Rosie Pearl is in love with a man called Tom Cat.
The song takes a dramatic turn in the end when it is implied that Tom Cat cheated and Rosie plans on finding him and perhaps, ending his life. When I tell you this song will have you questioning a few things, I am not lying!
43. Roar
We all know how people playfully call tigers and lions “big cats” as they are distant relatives of cats. This song by Katy Perry, a sensational hit, is about resilience.
The roaring of a tiger is used as a metaphor to display strength. The song has many accolades and certifications and rightfully so!
44. Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats
Yes, this is another song from “Cats” the musical and it is by Andrew Llyod Webber. The song is sung by Jellicle cats who sing about the Jellicle Ball where a cat is chosen for a new life.
45. Kitty Kat
I’m sure when you clicked on this article, you were not expecting a song by Beyonce on here. In this song, Bey uses cat metaphors to express her confidence and sensuality.
I recommend you check this song out as the beat and lyrics are the best for putting you in a badass mood.
46. Mirror Maru
This track is by Cashmere Cat, a Frech producer, and it does not have any lyrics. And it doesn’t need any as the beats and melodies are enough.
The aura of the song is quite hypnotic and is unique in the electronic music world.
47. Mungojerrie And Rumpleteazer
Mungojerrie And Rumpleteazer are two cunning and playful cats from the musical play “Cats”. This song has a catchy beat and the witty personalities of the cats are portrayed through it beautifully.
48. Thomas O’Malley Cat
This song is from the movie The Aristocats and it is sung by the alley cat, Thomas O’Malley. The jazzy melody is nostalgic as it reminds me of all the cartoons from the ‘90s and ‘00s.
The song celebrates the carefree and joyous life of the alley cat and the music video is a fun watch.
49. The Minister’s Cat
This song is about the game “The Minioster’s Cat” which is used as a party game. In the game, people take turns adding adjectives at the end of the phrase “the minister’s cat”.
It is a fun little game, one which has a song on it that I suggest checking out as it can be a great icebreaker at gatherings.
50. Scales And Arpeggios
Another song from the movie, the Aristocats is quite educational as it gives a musical lesson. The fundamentals of music theories are included in this so if you want your child to learn some then just play this song for them!
FAQs
When was the ‘Cats’ musical made?
Cats is one of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history. It received its world premiere in 1981 at the New London Theatre. Since then, it played for a whopping 21 record-breaking years.
Does the Cats musical have any Grammy?
Yes! The musical has won Grammy awards for Best Cast Album. This was both, the original London and Broadway castings. Cats has had global recognition as it has been translated into 15 languages.
Which cat song is in Lion King?
The Lion Sleeps Tonight is in the movie, the Lion King. it is featured in both, the first original movie as well as the later stage production. The song will always remain iconic and Soloman Linda, the writer will forever be praised for this masterpiece.