22 Purrrfect Songs about Cats

Cats are often viewed as mysterious and fascinating creatures, with their playful and aloof nature captivating humans for centuries. As a result, cats have been the subject of many songs throughout the years, with musicians drawing inspiration from their enigmatic behavior and captivating personalities. From rock anthems to ballads, the songs about cats cover a wide range of genres and moods, making them a favorite among music lovers.

The 22 pur-fect songs about cats featured in this list capture the essence of these captivating creatures, with lyrics that range from whimsical and playful to dark and mysterious. Some of the songs are inspired by famous literary cats, such as the Cheshire Cat from “Alice in Wonderland,” while others are inspired by the artists’ own feline companions.

These songs explore the many different facets of cats, from their mischievous behavior to their comforting presence.The songs on this list also showcase the diverse range of musical styles that have been used to celebrate cats. From the hard rock anthems of Poison and The Spin Doctors to the playful melodies of Disney’s “The Siamese Cat Song,” there is a song for every music lover on this list. Whether you’re a cat lover or simply appreciate good music, these 22 pur-fect songs about cats are sure to delight and entertain.

1.Cool For Cats – Squeeze

“Cool For Cats” by Squeeze is a classic new wave pop song with catchy guitar riffs and a playful, humorous tone. The song tells a story about different characters, including a “dirty old river” and a “skinny white sailor,” all set against a backdrop of working-class England. The driving rhythm and sing-along chorus make it an irresistible toe-tapper that still holds up today.

2.The Love Cats – The Cure

“The Love Cats” by The Cure is a quirky, jazzy new wave song that showcases the band’s offbeat style and sense of humor. The track features a bouncing bassline, quirky piano riffs, and Robert Smith’s distinctive vocals. Lyrically, the song is playful and romantic, with Smith describing the “strange” and “lovely” world of the love cats. With its catchy melody and infectious energy, “The Love Cats” is a standout track in The Cure’s extensive discography.

3.Nashville Cats – The Lovin’ Spoonful

“Nashville Cats” by The Lovin’ Spoonful is a cheerful, upbeat ode to the talented studio musicians in Nashville, Tennessee. The song features a catchy guitar riff, twangy banjo, and harmonica, all layered over a bouncy rhythm. The lyrics celebrate the skills and camaraderie of the Nashville musicians, painting a picture of a vibrant and supportive musical community. With its catchy melody and infectious energy, “Nashville Cats” is a fun and lively tribute to the often unsung heroes of the music industry.

4.What’s New Pussycat – Tom Jones

“What’s New Pussycat” by Tom Jones is a lively and playful song that showcases the Welsh singer’s powerful vocals and charisma. Written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the track features a swinging horn section, catchy melody, and playful lyrics about a man trying to win back his fickle lover. With its catchy chorus and memorable hook, “What’s New Pussycat” became a hit in the mid-1960s and remains a beloved classic to this day.

5.50 Something Cats – deadmau5

“50 Something Cats” by deadmau5 is an instrumental electronic track with a chilled-out vibe and a pulsing rhythm. The song features a laid-back melody with subtle synthesizer layers and a smooth bassline, all anchored by a steady beat. The track’s title is a reference to the number of cats that the Canadian DJ and producer had at the time of recording, and the song’s mellow energy reflects the contentment of a cat owner enjoying the company of their pets. Overall, “50 Something Cats” is a relaxing and enjoyable piece of electronic music that showcases deadmau5’s talent for creating atmospheric and engaging tracks.

6.Pussycat Meow – Deee-Lite

“Pussycat Meow” by Deee-Lite is a funky, upbeat dance track with a driving beat and catchy melody. The song features a mix of electronic and organic instrumentation, with synthesizers, drums, and horns all layered together to create a lively and energetic sound. The lyrics are playful and flirtatious, with frontwoman Lady Miss Kier singing about her “pussycat meow” and encouraging listeners to “shake it.” With its infectious groove and high-energy vibe, “Pussycat Meow” is a standout track from Deee-Lite’s eclectic discography and a testament to their ability to get people moving on the dance floor.

7.Cat’s in the Cradle – Harry Chapin

“Cat’s in the Cradle” by Harry Chapin is a poignant folk-rock ballad that tells the story of a father and son who struggle to connect over the course of their lives. The song features acoustic guitar and piano, with Chapin’s expressive vocals conveying a sense of longing and regret. The lyrics are powerful and heart-wrenching, chronicling the father’s journey from a busy and absent parent to an elderly man seeking connection with his grown-up son. With its timeless message about the importance of family and connection, “Cat’s in the Cradle” has become a classic of the singer-songwriter genre and a beloved song for generations.

8.Smelly Cat – Lisa Kudrow (Friends)

“Smelly Cat” is a humorous song performed by Lisa Kudrow’s character, Phoebe Buffay, on the hit TV show “Friends”. The song features Phoebe strumming a guitar and singing about a smelly cat that nobody wants to adopt. The lyrics are silly and irreverent, with Phoebe imagining scenarios in which the cat becomes famous or even goes to space. The song’s simple melody and catchy chorus made it a fan favorite and a pop culture phenomenon. Over the years, “Smelly Cat” has become synonymous with the quirky and lovable character of Phoebe, and remains a beloved and memorable part of the show’s legacy.

9.Cat People (Putting Out Fire) – David Bowie

“Cat People (Putting Out Fire)” is a moody and atmospheric song by the legendary musician David Bowie. Originally written as the title track for the 1982 film “Cat People”, the song features Bowie’s haunting vocals over a brooding synth and guitar arrangement. The lyrics are dark and mysterious, with references to shape-shifting and predatory behavior. The song’s chorus is anthemic and memorable, with Bowie crooning the phrase “putting out fire with gasoline” over and over. With its haunting melody and enigmatic lyrics, “Cat People (Putting Out Fire)” is a standout track in Bowie’s extensive catalog and a testament to his unique creative vision.

10.Everybody Wants To Be A Cat – The Aristocats

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“Everybody Wants to Be a Cat” is a fun and catchy song from the 1970 Disney animated film “The Aristocats”. The song features jazzy instrumentation, including horns, drums, and piano, and is sung by the character Scat Cat, voiced by Scatman Crothers. The lyrics celebrate the carefree and fun-loving nature of cats, with Scat Cat singing about how everybody wants to be a cat because they’re cool and laid-back. The song’s upbeat tempo and playful lyrics make it a beloved part of the film’s soundtrack and a favorite among Disney fans.

11.Leave My Kitten Alone – The Beatles

“Leave My Kitten Alone” is a bluesy rock song by The Beatles that was originally recorded in 1964 but remained unreleased until 1995. The song features John Lennon’s raw vocals over a driving beat and guitar riff. The lyrics are a plea to a would-be suitor to leave the singer’s “kitten” alone and stop trying to steal her away. With its powerful vocals and catchy melody, “Leave My Kitten Alone” is a hidden gem in The Beatles’ discography and a testament to their versatility as a band.

12.Invitation To The Jellicle Ball – Andrew Lloyd Webber

“Invitation to the Jellicle Ball” is a song from the beloved Andrew Lloyd Webber musical “Cats”. The song features the character Old Deuteronomy inviting the other Jellicle cats to attend the annual Jellicle Ball, a night of celebration and ritual. The song’s catchy melody and playful lyrics capture the whimsical and fantastical world of the Jellicle cats, while also hinting at the deeper themes of the musical. With its memorable chorus and lush orchestration, “Invitation to the Jellicle Ball” is a standout track in the “Cats” soundtrack and a fan favorite among theater-goers.

13.I Taut I Taw A Puddy Tat – Mel Blanc

“I Taut I Taw a Puddy Tat” is a classic children’s song that was popularized by the beloved cartoon character Tweety Bird. The song features Tweety singing about his adventures trying to evade his nemesis, the mischievous cat Sylvester. The lyrics are simple and playful, with Tweety’s trademark speech impediment adding to the charm. The song’s catchy melody and lighthearted lyrics have made it a perennial favorite among children and adults alike, and a staple of pop culture.

14.Cat On Tin Roof – Blonde Redhead

“Cat on Tin Roof” is a moody and haunting song by the indie rock band Blonde Redhead. The song features a slow and brooding melody, with lead singer Kazu Makino’s ethereal vocals adding to the dreamlike atmosphere. The lyrics describe a cat wandering on a tin roof, with imagery that is both surreal and evocative. The song’s hypnotic rhythm and atmospheric soundscapes make it a standout track in Blonde Redhead’s discography and a fan favorite among indie rock enthusiasts.

15.Phenomenal Cat – The Kinks

“Phenomenal Cat” is a whimsical and psychedelic song by the legendary British rock band The Kinks. The song features a playful melody, with catchy hooks and harmonies that showcase the band’s unique pop sensibilities. The lyrics are surreal and fanciful, describing a cat who embarks on a journey to meet a “phenomenal” creature. The song’s kaleidoscopic sound and imaginative lyrics make it a standout track on The Kinks’ album “The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society”, and a fan favorite among their loyal fan base.

16.Pads, Paws And Claws – Elvis Costello

“Pads, Paws, and Claws” is a rollicking rock and roll song by the legendary British musician Elvis Costello. The song features a fast-paced and upbeat melody, with Costello’s signature biting lyrics and snarling vocals. The lyrics describe a lover who is as unpredictable and untamed as a wild animal, with vivid imagery of pads, paws, and claws. The song’s driving rhythm and catchy chorus make it a standout track on Costello’s album “Spike” and a fan favorite among his loyal fan base.

17.Stray Cat Strut – Stray Cats

“Stray Cat Strut” is a classic rockabilly song by the American band Stray Cats. The song features a catchy and swinging melody, with Brian Setzer’s twangy guitar licks and smooth vocals. The lyrics describe a stray cat who struts through town, attracting attention and admiration from all who see him. The song’s playful lyrics and infectious rhythm have made it a staple of classic rock radio and a fan favorite among fans of rockabilly and 1950s-style music.

18.The Siamese Cat Song – Sonny Burke and Peggy Lee

“The Siamese Cat Song” is a playful and mischievous song from the Disney movie “Lady and the Tramp.” The song features the voices of Peggy Lee and Sonny Burke as the Siamese cats Si and Am, who are known for their troublesome behavior. The song is filled with catchy lyrics and playful melodies, making it a favorite among Disney fans of all ages.

19.The Alley Cat Song – David Thorne

“The Alley Cat Song” is a classic jazz tune that has been covered by many artists over the years. The song features a swinging beat and catchy piano riffs, making it a fun and lively dance number. David Thorne’s version of the song is particularly popular, with his smooth vocals adding an extra layer of charm and playfulness to the already delightful tune. “The Alley Cat Song” is a beloved classic that is sure to get you tapping your feet and swinging your hips.

20.Cleopatra’s Cat – The Spin Doctors

“Cleopatra’s Cat” by The Spin Doctors is a lively rock song that tells the story of the Egyptian queen Cleopatra and her beloved pet cat. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy guitar riffs create a fun and playful atmosphere that perfectly matches the song’s whimsical lyrics. With its clever lyrics and energetic vibe, “Cleopatra’s Cat” is a fun and memorable addition to The Spin Doctors’ discography.

21.Honky Cat – Elton John

“Honky Cat” is a classic rock song by Elton John that features a lively piano melody and catchy lyrics. The song tells the story of a rural man who comes to the city to pursue his dreams of becoming a musician, but ultimately misses his simple life back home. The song’s upbeat tempo and energetic vocals create a fun and uplifting mood that perfectly captures the spirit of chasing one’s dreams. With its catchy melodies and memorable lyrics, “Honky Cat” is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time.

22.Look What the Cat Dragged In – Poison

“Look What the Cat Dragged In” by Poison is a hard rock anthem that tells the story of a wild and reckless lifestyle. The song’s pounding drums, scorching guitar riffs, and soaring vocals create a powerful and energetic sound that perfectly captures the song’s rebellious lyrics. With its catchy chorus and memorable hooks, “Look What the Cat Dragged In” became a hit for Poison and has since become a beloved classic of the 80s rock scene. This song is a must-listen for anyone who loves hard rock and the wild spirit of rock and roll.