The 6 Best Cat and Dog-Themed Board Games

My family and I love board games almost as much as we love our pets! And we’re always on a lookout for ways to combine those two passions with pet-themed board games. These carefully curated pet-themed board games are perfect for family game nights or as pet lover gifts, blending strategic fun with our beloved animal companions.

For this article, I’ve teamed up with my household’s resident board game expert, my 14-year-old son, Gavin, to bring you our favorite cat and dog-themed board games. All of these games are owned, played, and loved by our family, and we’re sure you’ll enjoy them too!

From strategy games where you collect different breeds of dogs to cooperative games where you work together to rescue cats, there’s something for everyone in the world of pet-themed board games. Whether you’re a cat person, a dog person, or just a board game enthusiast, there’s bound to be a game on this list that will have you wagging your tail or purring with delight.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase something through one of my links at no extra cost to you.

The Best Cat-Themed Board Games

Let’s start with our favorite cat board games – each one offering unique gameplay that will delight feline enthusiasts and strategy gamers alike.

Calico

1-4 Players | 30-45 Minutes | Ages 10+

Overview

Calico is an award-winning spatial puzzle game where players act as quilters competing to create the coziest and most beautiful quilts. This charming, family-friendly game cleverly weaves together pattern matching, strategic thinking, and adorable cats into an engaging puzzle experience.

Gameplay

• Objective: Sew patches onto your quilt by drafting and placing tiles, earning points for buttons, design goals, and attracting cats.
• Mechanics:
  • Tile Placement: Strategically place hexagonal tiles to form color and pattern groups.
  • Set Collection: Collect buttons by creating color groups, and attract cats with specific pattern arrangements.
  • Drafting: Choose and place tiles to maximize scoring potential from design goals and attract cats.
  • Pattern Matching: Meet unique quilt pattern requirements for additional bonuses.
• Replayability: No two games are the same, thanks to modular scoring conditions and variable setup.

What We Loved

• Inclusive Play: Offers a family mode ideal for new gamers and varied skill levels.
• Charming Aesthetics: Features adorable cats and beautiful art that enhance the engaging puzzle dynamics.
• Strategic Depth: While easy to teach and learn, it requires strategy and planning to maximize points.

Who It’s For

• Puzzle Lovers: Offers a satisfying and intricate spatial puzzle challenge.
• Cat Enthusiasts: Delightful theme featuring cats that adds charm and appeal.
• Family Gamers: Engaging and accessible for family play, suitable for a wide age range.
• Solo Gamers: Includes a dedicated solo mode for individual play.
• Strategy Gamers: Provides strategic depth with its pattern and color tile-placement mechanics.

Awards & Recognition

• 2021 American Tabletop Award for Best Strategy Game

The Isle of Cats

Standard Mode: 1-4 Players (up to 6 with Expansion) | 60 – 90 Minutes | Ages 12+

Family Mode: 2-4 Players (up to 6 with Expansion) | 30 – 60 Minutes | Ages 8+

Overview

In The Isle of Cats, players become citizens of Squall’s End on a vital rescue mission to save cats from a mysterious island before the evil Lord Vesh arrives. This competitive card-drafting and polyomino cat-placement game combines strategic decision-making with spatial puzzle-solving, all wrapped in a charming adventure theme.

Gameplay

• Objective: Rescue cats by placing them on your boat before time runs out, collect treasures, and complete personal objectives for additional points.
• Mechanics:
  • Card Drafting: Players draft cards each round to acquire resources, rescue cats, find treasures, and gain special abilities.
  • Tile Placement: Each cat and treasure is represented by a uniquely shaped tile that players must strategically fit onto their boats.
  • Resource Management: Use fish as currency to rescue cats and baskets to catch them.
• Modes of Play:
  • Standard Mode: Offers deep strategic choices suitable for tactical gamers.
  • Family Mode: Simplifies gameplay, making it accessible for younger players and those new to board games.
• Replayability: With variable setups, numerous cat shapes, and a plethora of cards, each game presents a new puzzle and strategy.

What We Loved

• Strategic Depth and Flexibility: The game strikes a perfect balance between accessible gameplay and strategic complexity, catering to different skill levels.
• Stunning Artwork and Components: High-quality components and vibrant illustrations bring the world of The Isle of Cats to life.
• Engaging Theme: The rescue mission premise is both exciting and family-friendly, appealing to cat lovers and adventurers alike.
• Expansions and Variants: Multiple expansions and standalone games offer extended enjoyment.

Who It’s For

• Puzzle Enthusiasts: If you enjoy spatial puzzles and fitting pieces together efficiently, this game is for you.
• Strategists: Players who like planning ahead and making tactical decisions will find the standard mode challenging and rewarding.
• Families and Casual Gamers: The family mode provides an accessible experience without sacrificing fun, perfect for family game nights.
• Cat Lovers: With its feline-focused theme and charming cat illustrations, it’s a delightful choice for anyone who adores cats.

Alternate Versions

• Isle of Cats: Explore & Draw – A standalone game with similar mechanics where players draw cats and treasures onto their boats.
• Race to the Raft – A cooperative spin-off where players work together to save the last cats from the island.

Cat Lady

2-4 Players (1-6 with Expansion) | 30 Minutes | Ages 8+

Overview

Cat Lady invites players into a whimsical world of feline fun, where the objective is to collect and care for as many cats as possible. This card-drafting and set-collection game combines quick decision-making with endearing artwork, making it an ideal choice for anyone who loves cats.

Gameplay

• Objective: Strategically draft cards to assemble the best collection of cats, food, and accoutrements. Satisfy all your cats’ needs to maximize points and win the game.
• Mechanics:
  • Card Drafting: Pick a row or column of three cards to add to your collection, balancing food supply and cat needs.
  • Set Collection: Manage various card types such as toys, costumes, catnip, and of course, adorable cats.
  • Strategic Choices: Utilize different strategies for resource management, ensuring all cats are fed to avoid point penalties.
• Replayability: Offers a blend of strategy and simplicity, enhanced by expansions like “Box of Treats” and “Kittens,” which provide new challenges and opportunities.

What We Loved

• Charming Design: Authentic illustrations and a playful theme make it visually appealing and fun to engage with.
• Simple Yet Strategic: Easy-to-learn rules with enough depth to captivate more experienced gamers.
• Quick and Accessible: Fast-paced playtime and simple setup are perfect for family game nights or casual gatherings.
• Variety of Tactics: Players can explore numerous strategies to collect the most points, keeping each game fresh and challenging.

Who It’s For

• Anyone Seeking a Light, Fun Game: Ideal for those who enjoy quick, engaging gameplay sessions.
• Cat Lovers: A delightful addition to any collection for feline enthusiasts.
• Families with Young Children: Suitable for ages 8 and up, making it a great introductory game for kids.
• Casual and Experienced Gamers: Its blend of simplicity and strategic depth caters to a wide range of player expertise.

The Best Dog-Themed Board Games

Now for our favorite dog-themed board games! From managing a dog walking business to good doggos saving the world from zombies, these games capture different aspects of our love for canine companions.

Dog Lover

2-4 Players | 30 Minutes | Ages 10+

Overview

Inspired by the beloved Cat Lady game, Dog Lover brings canine enthusiasts into the spotlight with its charming and strategic card play. The game offers players the opportunity to collect treats, rescue dogs from shelters, and teach them tricks, adding unique twists and strategic depth to create a delightful experience for families and fans of our four-legged friends.

Gameplay

• Objective: Earn the most victory points by rescuing dogs, meeting their needs, and utilizing their unique traits and tricks.
• Mechanics:
  • Card Drafting: Players take turns fetching cards, collecting dogs, bones, food, and other items that benefit their dogs.
  • Set Collection: Gather various card types like dogs, food, toys, traits, and training to maximize your score.
  • Resource Management: Ensure you have the right food to feed your dogs; unfed dogs incur penalties.
  • Trick Cards: Expand your abilities by acquiring new tricks, allowing for different card-fetching patterns.
• Replayability: Variable setup with different dogs, tricks, and strategies ensures each game offers a fresh experience.

What We Loved

• Adorable Illustrations: The game captures the essence of diverse dog breeds with delightful and endearing artwork.
• Strategic yet Simple: Easy-to-learn mechanics that offer strategic depth, engaging both casual and seasoned players.
• Engaging Theme: Perfectly captures the joy and camaraderie of caring for dogs.
• Family-Friendly: Accessible for families while still providing meaningful decision-making.

Who It’s For

• Dog Lovers: Fans of canine companions will adore the thematic gameplay and artwork.
• Families and Casual Gamers: Suitable for family game nights with its easy setup and manageable playtime.
• Strategy Enthusiasts: Offers enough depth to satisfy players who appreciate tactical decisions within a light-hearted theme.

Bark Avenue

1-5 Players | 45-60 Minutes | Ages 10+

Overview

Bark Avenue puts players in the shoes of Manhattan dog walkers managing their daily routes and canine clients. This route optimization game was designed by a professional New York dog walker, bringing authentic charm and strategic depth to the experience of professional dog walking.

Gameplay

• Objective: Become the most accomplished dog walker by efficiently managing your routes, keeping your canine clients happy, and earning positive ratings.
• Mechanics:
  • Pick-up and Deliver: Collect and return dogs while managing their individual schedules.
  • Route Planning: Navigate Manhattan’s streets while managing multiple dogs with different needs.
  • Time Management: Balance walk lengths, activities, and bathroom breaks for various dogs.
  • Progression System: Earn ratings to unlock new abilities like walking more dogs or accessing off-leash areas.
• Replayability: Event cards and varied dog personalities create unique challenges each game, while multiple paths to victory keep strategies fresh.

What We Loved

• Authentic Theme: Designed by actual dog walkers, the game captures real-world challenges and experiences.
• Adorable Artwork: Features illustrations of real dogs and foster dogs.
• Fast-Paced Play: Short turns keep players engaged and the game moving quickly.
• Strategic Depth: Simple rules belie complex route optimization decisions.

Who It’s For

• Dog Lovers: Perfect for anyone who enjoys canine-themed games with authentic details.
• Strategy Gamers: Offers engaging route optimization and resource management challenges.
• Solo Players: Includes single-player mode for individual challenges.

Good Dog, Bad Zombie

1-4 Players | 60 Minutes | Ages 13+

Overview

In this cooperative adventure, players become dogs navigating a zombie apocalypse to rescue their beloved “hoomans.” With charming dog-centric descriptions of locations and characters based on real dogs, this game offers a unique and playful take on the zombie genre while maintaining engaging cooperative gameplay.

Gameplay

• Objective: Work together as a pack of dogs to rescue enough humans and bring them back to Central Bark before too many humans are lost to zombies and the dogs go feral.
• Mechanics:
  • Cooperative Actions: Players coordinate their moves and abilities to rescue humans effectively.
  • Hand Management: Use energy cards for various actions like running, herding, and barking.
  • Variable Player Powers: Each dog has unique abilities based on their personality.
  • Area Movement: Navigate the board while avoiding zombies and searching for humans.
• Replayability: Different difficulty levels, variable setup, and two expansions (“Weird Smells” and “Unlikely Allies”) provide fresh challenges.

What We Loved

• Unique Theme: Clever combination of dogs and zombies with authentic “doggy” perspective.
• Custom Content: Option to create and play as your own dog using the manufacturer’s website.
• Immersive Details: Location names from a dog’s perspective, like “Squirrel Town” (the woods) or “The Worst Place” (vet’s office) add charm and humor.
• Cooperative Experience: Encourages teamwork and strategic planning.

Who It’s For

• Dog Lovers: Features real dogs and playful canine perspectives.
• Cooperative Gamers: Perfect for groups who enjoy working together.
• Family Gamers: Engaging theme and cooperative nature make it great for family game nights.
• Zombie Game Fans: Offers a fresh take on the zombie apocalypse genre.

Buy Good Dog, Bad Zombie from The TESA Collective

Honorable Mentions

These games aren’t completely pet-themed, but do have pet-related elements that are sure to delight the animal lovers at your board game table.

Verdant

1-5 Players | 30-45 Minutes | Ages 10+

Overview

While primarily focused on houseplants, Verdant earns its place among pet-themed games by incorporating adorable pets as key components in creating the perfect home environment. Players compete to build the coziest, most verdant living space by arranging plants, rooms, and various home accessories.

Gameplay

• Objective: Create the most appealing home environment by strategically placing and caring for houseplants while incorporating pets and furniture.
• Mechanics:
  • Spatial Puzzle: Place cards and tokens to optimize your home’s layout.
  • Card Drafting: Select from available card and token pairs each turn.
  • Pattern Building: Arrange elements to maximize scoring potential.
  • Set Collection: Gather complementary plants, rooms, and accessories.
• Replayability: Variable scoring goals and modular setup ensure each game offers a fresh puzzle to solve.

What We Loved

• Beautiful Artwork: Gorgeous illustrations of plants and home environments.
• Educational Value: Includes facts about over 50 real houseplants.
• Accessible Rules: Easy to learn while maintaining strategic depth.
• Relaxing Theme: Creates a peaceful, enjoyable gaming experience.

Who It’s For

• Plant Enthusiasts: Perfect for those who love houseplants and interior design.
• Puzzle Gamers: Offers engaging spatial challenges and optimization.
• Family Gamers: Family-friendly rules with depth for experienced players.
• Solo Players: Includes a robust single-player mode.
• Casual Gamers: Relaxing gameplay with straightforward turns.

The Fox Experiment

1-4 Players | 75 Minutes | Ages 14+

Overview

While not specifically about dogs or cats, The Fox Experiment earns an honorable mention for its fascinating exploration of fox domestication—a topic closely related to our canine companions. Based on a real 1958 scientific study and designed by Elizabeth Hargrave (Wingspan), this game lets players breed generations of foxes, selecting for friendly traits while observing how characteristics evolve over time.

Gameplay

• Objective: Create the friendliest fox lineage while completing studies and impressing patrons through strategic breeding choices.
• Mechanics:
  • Parent Selection: Choose fox pairs each round from available candidates.
  • Dice Rolling: Roll and manipulate trait dice based on parent characteristics.
  • Set Collection: Gather trait tokens to improve your breeding program capabilities.
  • Generational Progress: Breed foxes over multiple generations, with pups becoming future parents.
  • Pattern Building: Complete trait combinations for studies and patron goals.
• Replayability: Variable patron cards, studies, and the randomness of dice rolls create unique experiences each game.

What We Loved

• Educational Value: Based on real scientific research and domestication principles.
• Strategic Depth: Meaningful decisions in parent selection and trait development.
• Engaging Theme: Unique blend of science and game mechanics.
• Quality Components: Beautiful artwork and well-designed player boards.

Who It’s For

• Strategy Gamers: Offers deep tactical choices and long-term planning.
• Science Enthusiasts: Explores real genetic concepts through gameplay.
• Solo Players: Includes dedicated single-player mode.
• Animal Lovers: Engaging theme centered around breeding friendlier foxes.

We hope this list helps you find the perfect game to bring joy and entertainment to your family nights. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out, these pet-themed board games are sure to provide hours of fun and create lasting memories with your loved ones—and perhaps inspire some extra cuddles with your furry friends!