Translation guide
The animal 'cat' is 猫 (ねこ). For idiomatic or metaphorical uses, see the meanings below.
cat (animal)
Referring to the domestic feline animal.
The standard word for a cat. Can be used for both pet cats and cats in general.
うちの猫はとてもかわいいです。
Our cat is very cute.
That cat is a stray cat.
Often written in katakana in scientific or stylistic contexts, or when emphasizing the animal as a species.
animals of the cat family
A cute, affectionate term for a cat, similar to 'kitty'.
The kitty is sleeping on the sofa.
Describing a person who likes cats.
Describing someone or something as cat-like.
An i-adjective meaning 'cat-like' or 'feline'. Can describe appearance or behavior.
Her eyes are cat-like.
Literally 'cat eyes', often used to describe a certain eye shape or makeup style.
Cat-eye makeup is popular.
Common Japanese expressions involving cats.
Literally 'even want to borrow a cat's paws', meaning extremely busy and wanting any help available.
At the end of the year, I'm so busy I could use any help I can get.
Literally 'to wear a cat', meaning to feign innocence or pretend to be meek.
Literally 'gold coins to a cat', equivalent to 'pearls before swine'.
English slang like 'cool cat' does not translate directly. Use かっこいい人 or other appropriate terms instead.
彼は上司の前では猫をかぶっている。
He acts all innocent in front of his boss.
Giving him expensive wine is like casting pearls before swine.