How To Draw a Cat

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to draw a cat.

Step 1 – Sketch the Basic Structure

Start by drawing two circles: one for the head (smaller) and one for the body (larger). These should be proportionally placed to create the base form.
Connect the circles using soft lines to establish the cat’s neck and back curvature.
Draw four simple lines for the limbs, indicating the placement of the front and back legs. Add small oval shapes at the end of the lines to represent the paws.
This rough framework will serve as the skeleton for your cat drawing.

Refine the shapes of the limbs and body. Instead of stick lines, add thickness to give the limbs volume and natural flow.
Sketch the tail extending smoothly from the rear part of the body using a gentle curve.
Begin to shape the head by adding two large triangular ears on top and smoothing the edges of the initial head circle.
Clean up overlapping lines and unnecessary guides from Step 1 to maintain clarity in the shape.

Draw almond-shaped eyes symmetrically on the cat’s face, just below the center of the head.
Add a small triangle for the nose and lightly curve lines for the mouth, forming a subtle expression.
Outline the inner ear details and add gentle curves to show cheek and jaw definition.
Begin detailing the paws by adding slight bumps for toes.
Introduce light fur texture by sketching faint lines along the neck and body, helping the drawing begin to feel more lifelike.

Deepen the outlines and reinforce the defining edges of the cat’s body, especially around the legs, tail, and face.
Add shading to give the drawing depth. Focus on shadowed areas like under the chin, behind the legs, and beneath the belly.
Refine the eyes with pupils and slight highlights for realism. You may also lightly shade around them to enhance their shape.
Add fur texture throughout the body using short, controlled pencil strokes. Pay special attention to direction — fur should follow the natural flow of the cat’s body.
Finish by detailing the tail with gentle striping or shading, and ensure the paws and claws are subtly indicated.