My top 10 Disney Cats

Disney is more than well known for it's lovable animal animated characters. There most recent Oscar winning film was solely dedicated to them. As a true honest to goodness lover of both Disney and animals (and a cat owner myself) I decided to make a list of the some of the feline friends that I have appeared in some of our much loved Disney films. I've only included actual domesticated cats and no lions, tigers or tiggers

10. Rufus from The Rescuers (1977)

I recently watched this movie for the first time in years and I have to say, it truly is a little often forgotten gem, Of course with a movie surrounding 2 little mice, you have to have a cat in there somewhere. Rather than doing the obvious and have a villainous cat to chase the protagonists, the makers decided to have a sweet and lovable old moggy with a taste for napping and ginger snaps

9. Dinah from Alice in Wonderland (1951)

This little lady appears relatively briefly in this surrealistic film, and she is often the least remembered cat featured as most people think of the Cheshire Cat when they think of Alice. Having said that I've always loved Dinah, her cute little flabbergasted reactions at Alice's talk of living in a Wonderland are irresistibly adorable, and she rocked the pink bow long before Marie from The Aristocats came along

8. Lucifer from Cinderella (1950)

Lucifer may be a little fat nightmare of an animal, but he is an unforgettable character from one of Disney's true classics, so I would be nuts not to mention him on this list. He also makes for some of the most comedic moments in the film (his moments of manic glee at being evil) and in my opinion one of the most frustrating moments. That being when he traps Gus Gus under a tea cup right before he gets to give Cinderella the bedroom key. That moment is Hitchcock worthy in terms of how suspenseful it can be and this rotund little fuzz ball helps create that.

7. Sergeant Tibbs in 101 Dalmations (1961)

I must admit I have a personal affection for Sergeant Tibbs as we had a cat in my family as a child that we called Tibbs. So I always look forward to seeing this little guy on the screen. I love the fact that the Sergeant of this bunch of animals isn't the big dogs or the majestic horse, it's the scrawny little cat, I just think that's a wonderful idea and that he is a great little representative for the whisker set in this canine tale

6. Mittens in Bolt (2008)

Bolt is a fantastic film I only watched a few months ago for the first time ever and I adored it. Of course the John Travolta voiced Bolt is undeniably the main reason for the movie being so sweet and cute, but the character of Mittens is also to thank in a big way. She brings tears to even the coldest of people's eyes with the story of how she became homeless. i think it particularly touched me as I worked at an animal shelter with animals who had that exact back story. Thankfully it all works out for her in the end. Phew! or should I say Meow!

5. Figaro in Pinocchio (1940) 

This tiny firecracker of a fluff is so well animated and characterized that you just want to pick him up out of the screen and take him home for a cuddle. He has such a funny little personality and his exasperation at not getting his food or sleep when he wants as well as his reactions to meeting Pinocchio remind me so much of all the cats I've had throughout the years. 

4. Duchess from The Aristocats (1970)

What a doll! I may be a tad bias here as my own cat happens to be a fully white one just like Duchess. I really do wish he had her personality to though! One of the most beautiful and ladylike Disney characters ever and she wasn't even human. I also adore the voice of Eva Gabor as Duchess, such a lovely and refined characterization. 

3. The Kittens from The Aristocats (1970)

I know technically this is 3 different characters, but for the purposes of this list I'm going to group them together in a little trio. Marie, Toulouse and Berlioz are the perfect kids and kittens for any parent/owner. Their cute little individual looks along with their continuous bickering and playful fights are a lot of fun to watch in the movie. I also particular love the kids that voiced them. I have a Marie plushie from the Disney Store and I cannot wait to get the other two kittens as part of my collection. 

2. Oliver from Oliver and Company (1988)

Whenever I mention this movie I always have to say just how underrated it is. It's got some wonderful song numbers and some great comedic moments and is a really unique idea for an animated feature. The stroke of genius of making the character of Oliver into a little ginger kitten is a purrrfect (see what I did there) idea. From the moment this little guy appears on screen in a box full of his siblings to the tune of "Once Upon A Time in New York City" we as the viewer fall in love and completely route for him and his canine companions

1. Thomas O'Malley from The Aristocats (1970)

Abraham De lacy.....Giuseppe Casey....Thomas O'Malley.....O'Malley the Alley Cat. This smooth operator. There are so many aspects of this character that are amazing, from his wonderful entrance song to his velvet voice (courtesy of Phil Harris, the voice of Baloo and Little John as well). My mother has a 17 year old cat called Sparky and if he were made into a cartoon, Thomas O'Malley would definitely be it. He is the epitome of a lovable rogue and his romance with Duchess in the picture is one of the best in Disney history

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Valentine's Dates inspired by Disney moments

Some of the moments in Disney film History are so unforgettably iconic that immediately they are recognizable, and none more so than those heart warming romantic moments. Seeing as how I have already posted a list of my favourite of those moments, I decided to do a post about potential Dates couples could share together that are inspired by Disney. I thought it would be a very appropriate post considering what Day tomorrow is! So here they are 💗💗💗💗

Mary Poppins (1964) Jolly Holiday in the Park

One of the most loved scenes in Mary Poppins is the one in which Bert and Mary, along with Jane and Michael step into the chalk drawing together. This would be an excellent idea for a date for couples with children in particular. Why not do as Bert and Mary did and go for a lovely stroll in the park followed by some cakes and tea (unfortunately you can order what we will, as they penguins say, but there will be a bill this time!). Follow that up if you can with a ride on the amusements or merry go round. I couldn't think of a more pleasant and picturesque thing to do on a Valentine's afternoon.

The Aristocats (1970) Jazz music with some cool cats

Everybody wants to be a cat and almost everybody would enjoy boogieing away in a swanky jazz bar/club listening to a fantastic band of musicians play. So, anyone who is lucky enough to live near a jazz place, should try taking their Duchess or O'Malley along to one for a relaxed fun Valentine's night. You could even end up busting a few moves together.

Lady and the Tramp (1955) Spaghetti on a Bella Notte

If you ask anyone what is one of the most romantic movie moments of all time, a good percentage will tell you that the spaghetti and meatballs scene in Lady and the Tramp is their number one. I think it is the perfect idea for any date but in particular for every Disney fan. It's the classic romantic evening with some delicious food, flirtation and beautiful music. How could you go wrong? I don't recommend the nosing of the meatball to each other if you're wearing some good or new clothes though!

The Princess and the Frog (2009) Cooking some tasty grub together

In Disney's extremely fun 2009 animation that is very reminiscent of the renaissance movies, Tiana teaches Prince Naveen to cook her father's gumbo. A fantastic way of bonding with your loved one or a new person in your life is to cook a delicious meal together. Afterall, there must be a reason why they say couples who cook together stay together. I think it's a lovely (and cost efficient) way to spend your Valentine's day together, going grocery shopping then setting a romantic table together while having fun and enjoying one of your favourite meals or something new and different with one another.

One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961) Evening walk with the pups

If you're lucky enough to have a canine companion in your life and/or your partner happens to be that lucky too, a wonderful idea is to break out the leash and head for a leisurely romantic stroll on a Valentine's evening just like Roger and Anita did with Pongo and Perdita in 101 Dalmations. You could also make a day of it by bringing the dogs along while you have a picnic in a park or your favourite scenic location in the afternoon. Just don't get too distracted by the romance and forget to keep an eye on the dogs so you don't end up with 101 puppies at your house!

The Little Mermaid (1989) Seeing the sites around town 

When Eric decides to take Ariel out for a fun filled day of site seeing and excitement, it makes you wish you could be on such a perfect first date. It has everything! A romantic ride through the country, shopping at the market, dancing, and an intimate evening boat ride. It would be the ideal date for a couple just getting to know one another as there are lots of opportunities to talk and learn new things together. Although, hopefully your date unlike poor Ariel's will end in true love's kiss.

So as you can see, there are lots of options and Disney inspiration for a perfect Valentine's time for you and the one you care for, but at the end of the day, as long as you are with that person and happy together, it really doesn't matter what you're doing, because being together is the most important part.

Top 10 Most Romantic Disney Moments

This list is a combination of what I consider to be the most heartwarming, beautiful and romantic Disney moments ever. The list is made up of moments from both Disney classics and Disney Pixar features. Obviously, every fan will have their own personal favourites but I'll do my best to include ones that every fan will appreciate. So here are my most loved ones <3

10. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

The very final scene of Disney's original classic in which Snow White is awakened by true love's first kiss by her Prince. This is Disney's first ever full length animated feature and it contains all of the things we have come to expect and adore in Disney features, including romance.The sweet way in which the Prince places a kiss upon his true love and her reaction of pure happiness and delight to see him as she awakens is so charming to see. This, combined with her bitter sweet farewell to each of the dwarfs and the building reprise of the song "Someday My Prince Will Come" makes this an unforgettable moment in movie history

9. Tarzan (1999)

This movie is really underrated in my opinion. The opening scene in particular is so emotional and I think Phil Collins soundtrack is tremendously good. The part of this film, that is so romantic, is the scene in which Tarzan meets Jane. Of course, everybody will know the term "Me Tarzan, you Jane" and how they integrated this famous line into this lovely scene was terrific. The most touching bit for me as a viewer, was when Tarzan removes Jane's now ruined glove and holds his hand against hers, showcasing his unique way of introducing himself to her.

8. The Aristocats (1970)

This movie is one of the cutest movies ever made. Firstly, it's about a family of cats, so automatically, if you're an animal lover you'll adore it. I love the character of Thomas O'Malley in particular, he reminds me of a 17 year old cat that lives between my mother and aunt's houses called Sparky. Lets face it, with that swagger, charm and velvety voice, Duchess didn't have any chance to resist him. The scene that follows the infamous "Everybody Wants to be A Cat" sequence in which Thomas and Duchess discuss the possibility of him become part of her family and he offers himself up as Papa to her kittens is such a lovely moment. The cherry on top of this scene is when Thomas affectionately curls his tale around Duchess's tail and they place their heads side by side. What a suitably romantic moment for such a purrrrfect couple!

7. Wall-E (2008)

I saw this film with a friend and her little sister and her friend when I was 17 in the cinema. I'm not sure whether it was the sentimentality we had from being somewhat older or what but that movie really made my friend and I very emotional and teary eyed, and definitely didn't have the same effect on the younger girls. I guess, the subtly of this film and quietness of it is harder for pre teen girls to appreciate but I think it is really effective. The scene I consider to be so romantic is when Wall-E and Eve meet. I find this scene so wonderful because of how flipping adorable they are together. The fact that Wall-E has been alone for so long and all he wants is someone to spend time with just breaks my heart and the opening of this movie makes it one of the hardest for me to watch due to how emotional I get, but somehow when Wall-E meets his Eve for the first time, you get this feeling that you know everything is going to be okay and they are meant to be together. Plus his attempt to say "Eve" without the aaaaaa at the end, is so cute and funny, beautiful moment. 

6. Sleeping Beauty (1958)

Disney's 1958 "Damsel in Distress" classic is kind of controversial in how much it splits audiences opinions. I personally think it's really good, not brilliant like Cinderella or Beauty and the Beast, but still a solid and entertaining animated movie and a must see for all Disney lovers. The moment in particular that I found so lovely and romantic in this film was is the "Once Upon A Dream" where Aurora and Phillip first encounter each other. The elements of how infatuated they clearly are with each  other, the beautiful song and the sweetness of the animals dancing and messing around with Aurora before she meets Phillip are all wonderful and enjoyable to watch. As a side note, Prince Phillip was the first Disney character I had a crush on......Yes, I'm woman enough to admit it, this probably added to my liking this scene so much 

5. Tangled (2008)

Tangled is the kind of predecessor to Frozen as it has similar animation, and a similar style of story telling, I don't think it was as successful as Frozen, but it was still a really lovely movie. For me, one scene stands out in particular and that is the "I See the Light" scene where Rapunzel and Flynn are in the row boat watching the lanterns in the sky. That song is so magical and it really hits such a romantic note. I feel Mandy Moore's voice was the perfect choice for Rapunzel and it gave us a reminder of how she was one of the few late 90s teen queens who could actually sing. The phrase in the song that is particularly touching is "All at once everything is different, now that I'm with you" I mean, that is a perfect sentiment for a moment like that.

4. Beauty and the Beast (1991)

With all the hype over the new remake of Beauty and the Beast, I had to recently rewatch it and as per usual, I enjoyed every second of it. The remake will unfortunately never surpass the "Tale As Old As Time" scene, as it is truly tender and romantic and that isn't something that can be easily said in most films. My favourite part of this scene is when Belle gently rests her head on Beast's shoulder, his reaction is so cute and genuine. Angela Lansbury's rendition of the timeless song works so well when combined with the groundbreaking animation is so wonderful, you can see why this film was nominated for an Oscar for Best Picture and why it has some of movie history's most romantic on screen moments

3. Aladdin (1992)

The magic carpet ride scene in Aladdin works so well because of the chemistry between the two characters, how they were able to convey such amazing chemistry between two animated characters is outstanding. They genuinely come across like they are falling for one another and the setting of the two flying on the magic carpet through all of these exotic places as well as the classic song "A Whole New World" are all so beloved by all Disney fans. I would recommend anybody who hasn't seen it to watch the singing voices of Aladdin and Jasmine, Brad Kane and Lea Salonga perform the song over 20 years later on Good Morning America. They still sing it beautifully and it completely recreates the moment for all of the movie's fans.

2. Lady and the Tramp (1955)

This is officially one of the most adorable movies ever made. It is a love story of course between a Lady (a cocker spaniel dog who lives in a nice home with a well to do young couple) and a Tramp (a mixed breed street dog who gets his meals between different homes and restaurants around the neighbourhood). I personally love dogs and other animals so much, so a Disney movie about two dogs in love feels like it was tailor made for me and I'm sure many other's feel that way too! The infamous spaghetti and meatballs moment in the movie is probably on everyone's list of great romantic moments, it's so tender and affectionate. Lady and Tramp going for a meal at Tony's italian restaurant where they serve up their tasty grub to the dogs and they serenade them with the lovely "Bella Notte". It would make the perfect date for anybody and I'm sure many a couple has recreated that spaghetti string moment on a lovely bella notte together

1. The Little Mermaid (1989)

My all time ultimate favourite Disney romantic moment has got to be "Kiss The Girl" in The Little Mermaid. The song is one of the best Disney songs ever written from one of the greatest Disney scores ever composed. I love every song in The Little Mermaid and often walk around my apartment singing them for no particular reason. The setting of this whole scene, the back up singing of the other animals, Sebastian's voice encouraging the other animals and the audience to "Sing with me now" and the way the animators made the characters of Ariel and Eric look so infatuated with each other is so great to watch.