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How to draw a cat in 6 easy steps

For kids & beginners · about 10 minutes · pencil, paper, eraser

Cats are the perfect first drawing: a circle, two triangles, and a curvy tail — that's honestly most of it. Follow the sheet above panel by panel, or read the steps below. Light pencil lines first; you'll darken the good ones at the end.

The 6 steps

1. Draw the head. A big circle slightly above the middle of your paper. Keep the lines light — we'll refine later.
2. Add the ears. Two triangles on top, pointed slightly outward — like the cat heard a treat bag open.
3. Give it a face. Two dot eyes, a small triangle nose, and a "W" mouth right under the nose. Three whiskers per side.
4. Draw the body. From the bottom of the head, a rounded egg shape — sitting cats are basically soft eggs.
5. Legs and tail. Two front legs as straight lines ending in small oval paws, and one long tail curving around the body.
6. Finish and color. Darken your favorite lines, erase the scaffolding, and color it however you like — tabby orange, gray, or full rainbow.

Make it yours

Once the basic cat feels easy, try variations: close the eyes into happy arcs for a sleeping cat, add stripes for a tabby, or draw a tiny fish snack next to it. The fastest way to improve is drawing the same cat three times — you'll be amazed at cat #3.

FAQ

What age is this for? The 6-step version works for ages 5+ with a little help, and 7+ independently. Adults doodling in meetings: also valid.

What if my cat looks weird? Weird cats are the best cats. Seriously — wobbly lines have charm. Draw it again and keep the version you like more.