How to Draw a Cat

The cat’s graceful body and variety of fur patterns make them compelling subjects to draw.

Instructions

Step 1: Draw body and head Draw a vertical half-oval for the body and place a smaller circle at the top left of the oval for the head. This will create a side view drawing.
Step 2: Add tail and legs Add a cane-shaped tail, connecting it to the lower back. Draw a half arc across the inside of the oval at its midpoint to define the hindquarter. Make a short line from the center bottom of the space created by the arc, angling it toward the tail. Draw a triangular shape from the outside of the inner arc to the outside of the original oval.
TIP: Take your time sketching the basic shapes and draw lightly.
Step 3: Place paws and face Add small horizontal oval shapes to the end of each leg for paws. Connect the head to the body with short lines. Draw a curved line beneath the head and connected to the face with a short, straight line to create the muzzle.
Step 4: Add facial features and ear Add the cat’s nose, a triangle-shaped ear at the side of the head, whiskers, an almond-shaped eye socket, and a round eye.
TIP: Reflect accurate lighting conditions by adjusting the size of the cat’s pupil. The pupil enlarges in accordance to greater amounts of light.
Step 5: Erase guidelines Erase unwanted guidelines, refining the cat’s contour.
Step 6: Add fur markings and shadows Sketch in distinctive fur markings and create depth by darkening shadowed areas. With patience, skill, and little luck, you’ll create a drawing that’s the cat’s meow.
FACT: Did you know? There are more than 30 recognized pedigreed cat breeds, each with distinguishing features.