How to Draw a Cat

Cats are one of the most popular animals to draw. They’re cute, playful, and full of personality. This easy guide will show you how to draw a cat step by step — perfect for beginners and hobby artists. With U.S.-friendly size tips and visuals, you’ll be sketching your own furry friend in no time.

What You’ll Need

• Pencil (HB or 2B for sketching)
• Eraser
• Paper (8.5” x 11” standard U.S. letter size)
• Optional: Colored pencils or markers
• Ruler (to help with proportions)

Step 1: Draw the Head

1. Start with a circle (about 2–3 inches wide) in the upper part of your page.
2. Add two triangle shapes on top for ears.

Step 2: Sketch the Body

1. Draw an oval (about 4 inches tall) just below the head.
2. Connect it smoothly to the head with short neck lines.

➡ Size Note: The body oval should be slightly larger than the head circle.

Step 3: Add Legs and Paws

1. Draw two front legs — straight lines down from the oval, ending in small rounded paws (about 1 inch wide).
2. Add back legs using curved lines on each side of the body.

Step 4: Draw the Tail

1. Sketch a long, curved tail starting from the side of the body.
2. Make it about the same length as the body (4–5 inches long).

Step 5: Add the Face

1. Draw two almond-shaped eyes (about 0.5 inch each).
2. Add a small triangle nose.
3. Draw a “W” shape under the nose for the mouth.
4. Add whiskers on each side (3–4 short lines).

Step 6: Final Details

• Darken your final lines.
• Erase unnecessary guidelines.
• Add fur texture, stripes, or spots.
• Color the cat: common U.S. pet cat colors are orange tabby, gray, black, or calico.

Extra Tips

• Keep shapes simple at first — circles, ovals, and triangles.
• Use light strokes so you can erase easily.
• Practice different poses (sitting, stretching, lying down).

Final Thoughts

Drawing a cat is easy when you break it into simple shapes. By starting with a circle, oval, and triangles, then adding details, you can create a realistic and fun cat sketch. With these size references and visual tips, your drawing will look great whether it’s for school, fun, or art practice.