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James the Cat

(Rated TV-Y, Children, cartoons, & animation, Starring Sean Arnold, Alistair McGowan, Where to watch: Sprout)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 0, age appropriate for kids over 4; suggested age 4.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Sophisti-catted tales best for older preschoolers.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 4 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    James is a sweet if somewhat aloof "fat cat" given to complaining (though he always steps up when occasion demands). He and his garden friends get along well and tolerate one another's differences.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness:

    Not an issue.

  • Sexy stuff:

    Not an issue.

  • Language:

    Occasional uses of words like "stupid."

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About James the Cat

Parents need to know that this series (a British import), while entertaining and original, sometimes has confusing, choppy storylines. The youngest viewers may find the show's dialogue (which is all performed by two male actors who use a range of accents) and pacing hard to follow and some of the messages complex. That makes it a better fit for slightly older, more sophisticated kids who have more experience sticking with a story.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about why James travels the world to solve problems. What is a diplomat? Does James fit his role well? Why does he complain so often? Parents may have to explain the role of some characters. Why are Ma and Pa Rat sometimes sneaky? Why does Dennis the pink dragon appear from nowhere to help when James is in a bind?
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