Getting Started
Welcome to TheCatAPI. The Cat API is a free service that provides programmatic access to thousands of cat images and detailed breed information. It powers apps that identify, sort, and explore cat breeds and images.
- Search and filter images
- Upload your own cat photos
- Vote for favourites and save your own lists
Sign up for an API key to get started, or explore the endpoints in the sidebar.
The Free plan covers learning and hobby projects. The Startup plan adds a commercial licence, higher request limits and the full breed dataset for a low monthly fee, and Enterprise plans unlock the AI analysis and health data features described below.
Base URL
All requests are made against https://api.thecatapi.com/v1.
Enterprise Features
TheCatAPI runs on the same platform as TheDogAPI, so the same enterprise-grade features are available for cats. Access depends on your subscription tier.
| Feature | Description | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Characteristics | Full breed schema: temperament, origin, life span, coat group, and 1–5 scores for affection, energy, grooming, vocalisation and more. | Startup Subscription |
| Facts | Curated, fact-checked breed trivia. | Startup Subscription |
| Health Tips | Veterinary-reviewed health advice with sources. | Enterprise |
| Dietary Risks | Beneficial, Cautionary, and Toxic food lists. | Enterprise |
| Dietary Recs | Meal planning, calories, and recommended ingredients. | Enterprise |
| Allergens | Common intolerances and environmental triggers. | Enterprise |
| Grooming & Exercise | Grooming schedules and exercise guidance by life stage. | Enterprise |
| Jokes | Lighthearted content for engagement. | Enterprise |
| Pet Analysis | AI body condition, muscle condition, estimated age and breed mix from photos. | Enterprise |
| Pet Portraits | AI-generated portraits of your users' cats in a range of styles. | Enterprise |
Features marked as Startup Subscription are included with the Startup tier. Contact us to discuss Enterprise access to the rest.