Parents' Guide to A Cat's Life

First and foremost, this is a great film for cat fans—and animal lovers in general. If you grew up loving films like the Homeward Bound series, then you'll probably like A Cat's Life, since much of the film is about Lou discovering the magic and perils of life in the wild. That said, on the human side of the story, the film has themes of loss and grief, which might be a bit heavy for some younger viewers. But you could also argue that not only is it OK for kids to learn about the trials of growing up, it's necessary.

Like Clémence, many children are faced with the aftermath of their parents' divorce and the ensuing grief it causes. Children with pets also have to come to terms with the fact that one day their pet will die, something Clémence has to brace for when Lou gets seriously injured. While Clémence is spared Lou's death, she still must learn to let him go live his life in the wild with his new mate. Showing children that grief can be a part of a relationship as it grows and changes is important for their emotional development, and A Cat's Life teaches these lessons as gently as possible without talking down to children.