Anime has long celebrated the charm of neko girls—those cute, cat-eared characters that make hearts flutter and tails wag. However, it’s high time we also give some much-needed love to their male counterparts: the neko boys. With their fluffy tails, cat ears, and irresistibly cute (and sometimes mischievous) personalities, neko boys in anime are just as captivating, if not more so! So, if you’re a fan of anime and can’t get enough of these feline-inspired characters, this list of the top 15 neko boys in anime is just what you need.
Whether you’re into the aloof yet charming cat boys or the more playful and outgoing ones, there’s a neko boy in this list for everyone. Get ready to meet these characters who embody the perfect mix of feline grace and boyish charm!
1. Tsukiyomi Ikuto from Shugo Chara!
When it comes to iconic neko boys, Tsukiyomi Ikuto from Shugo Chara! stands at the top. With his striking blue hair, mysterious personality, and ever-present aloofness, Ikuto quickly became one of the most beloved neko boys in anime history. His seductive cat-like movements and dark yet charming aura won him the hearts of countless fans. He’s the kind of neko boy who keeps you on your toes, constantly teasing and intriguing.
Ikuto’s charm lies not only in his appearance but also in his emotional depth. His struggles with loneliness and the bond he forms with the main character, Amu, show the complexity of his character. If you’re into the classic neko boy archetype—cunning, aloof, yet surprisingly vulnerable—Ikuto is the anime neko boy you don’t want to miss.
2. Sohma Kyo from Fruits Basket
Kyo Sohma from Fruits Basket is a perfect example of the “grumpy cat” personality, and we love him for it. Born with the curse of the Cat Zodiac, Kyo has a fiery temper and often struggles with feelings of inadequacy. But beneath his tough exterior, Kyo is a neko boy who melts your heart. His vulnerability, especially around his love interest, Tohru, shows a softer side that we can’t help but adore.
Every time Kyo’s cat ears pop out in moments of surprise or fear, it only adds to his cuteness. His complex personality, coupled with his charming neko boy traits, makes Kyo a standout character in the realm of anime neko boys.
3. Tomoe from Kamisama Kiss
Tomoe, the fox yokai from Kamisama Kiss, is a neko boy with a touch of mystique and a whole lot of flirtation. While he’s technically a fox, his human form embodies everything we love about neko boys—handsome, aloof, and full of charm. Tomoe’s loyalty to Nanami, his master, as well as his playful attitude, makes him a perfect fit for this list.
Tomoe’s relationship with Nanami evolves from one of resentment to deep affection, and his teasing nature makes for some of the most entertaining moments in the series. He might not be a full-fledged cat boy, but his neko traits are undeniable, making him a fan favorite among lovers of the “neko boy” genre.
4. Felix Argyle from Re:Zero
Felix Argyle, or Ferris-chan as he’s often called, is an adorable neko boy with a twist. Despite his feminine appearance and love for wearing frilly dresses, Felix is, in fact, a male. His sweet voice, cat ears, and playful attitude make him one of the cutest neko boys in anime. His flirtatious nature and the adorable way he interacts with Subaru, the main protagonist, only add to his charm.
Felix’s personality is as complex as his appearance—he’s a powerful knight with a mischievous side, and his neko features only enhance his captivating presence. If you love neko boys with a hint of androgyny and a dash of playful mischief, Felix is the character for you.
5. Hiroshi Inaba from Cuticle Tantei Inaba
Hiroshi Inaba, the wolf-human hybrid private detective from Cuticle Tantei Inaba, is an unconventional yet lovable neko boy. His red spiky hair, sharp features, and distinctive cat ears make him stand out, but it’s his quirky personality that truly makes him memorable. Hiroshi’s obsession with hair, his flirtatious nature, and his outgoing demeanor make him a unique addition to the list of neko boys in anime.
Though Hiroshi may not be your typical neko boy, his eccentricities and charming demeanor win him a spot on our list. His ability to make you laugh while still maintaining his neko charm is what makes him a true standout.
6. Shu☆Zo from Show by Rock!!
Shu☆Zo is the charismatic lead vocalist and guitarist of the band Trichronika in Show by Rock!!. His cool, flamboyant style and cat-like features make him a memorable neko boy. With his colorful hair, captivating voice, and adorable neko ears, Shu☆Zo is a rock star in every sense of the word.
Though his personality may seem a bit distant and mysterious at times, his commitment to his band and his fans shines through. Shu☆Zo embodies the perfect balance of charm and coolness, making him an unforgettable neko boy in anime.
7. Kai and Riku from Show by Rock!!
Kai and Riku, the twin neko boys from Show by Rock!!, bring a playful energy to the anime world. Both characters are part of the band Trichronika, and their distinct personalities shine through in their performances. Kai is the more serious of the two, while Riku has a carefree, energetic nature that contrasts beautifully with his twin’s more reserved attitude.
Their shared admiration for Shu☆Zo and their roles in the band add an extra layer of charm to these neko boys. Whether you’re a fan of their music or their adorable neko ears, Kai and Riku are sure to win your heart.
8. Loke from Fairy Tail
Loke, the Celestial Spirit of the Lion Zodiac, is another neko boy who earns a spot on our list. Though he’s technically not a full-fledged neko boy, Loke’s lion-like traits—such as his spiky hair and animalistic ears—earn him a place among the most beloved neko boys in anime. Loke’s flirtatious, charming personality and his role as Lucy’s celestial spirit make him a fan favorite.
Loke’s charm lies in his ability to simultaneously be both a womanizer and a loyal friend. His lion-inspired traits and confident demeanor make him a standout character in Fairy Tail, and he’s a perfect addition to any list of neko boys.
9. Kyo Sohma from Fruits Basket (2019)
Kyo’s character in Fruits Basket (2019) deserves a mention for the modern version of the show, which brings his neko traits into a new light. His cat-like demeanor and emotional depth are amplified in this remake, making him even more endearing to fans. Kyo’s journey from an angry, insecure boy to a loving, confident individual is one of the most heartwarming arcs in anime.
For fans who love neko boys with emotional complexity, Kyo Sohma’s character evolution in the 2019 version of Fruits Basket is a must-watch.
10. Ikuto Tsukiyomi from Shugo Chara!
Another mention of Ikuto Tsukiyomi from Shugo Chara! is necessary because he’s just that iconic. His aloof, mysterious, and sometimes teasing nature makes him a classic example of the “neko boy” trope. Whether he’s helping Amu or showing his emotional side, Ikuto’s neko traits remain a constant part of his allure.
Ikuto’s ability to balance his cold exterior with moments of warmth and vulnerability is what makes him an enduring favorite among fans of anime neko boys.
11. Soma Yukihira from Food Wars!
Soma Yukihira from Food Wars! is a quirky, confident neko boy who stands out with his carefree attitude and bold personality. While Soma doesn’t have traditional cat-like features, his love for cooking and his playful interactions with other characters earn him a spot among the most beloved neko boys.
Soma’s ability to charm others with his infectious energy and passion for food makes him a fan-favorite, and his neko traits—especially when it comes to his mischievous behavior—are a key part of his charm.
12. Aru Akise from Future Diary
Aru Akise, the intelligent and enigmatic character from Future Diary, may not have traditional neko traits, but his cat-like personality and sharp wit make him a perfect fit for the “neko boy” archetype. His mysterious nature and cool demeanor make him stand out in the world of anime, and his love for solving mysteries adds an extra layer of intrigue.
While Aru may not have the physical traits of a typical neko boy, his cleverness and enigmatic personality make him a beloved character in his own right.
13. Kyo Kusanagi from King of Fighters: Another Day
Kyo Kusanagi from King of Fighters: Another Day has all the right traits to be considered a neko boy. With his cool, confident attitude and his affinity for combat, Kyo is a perfect blend of the cat-like aloofness we love and the strong personality of a fighter. His presence in the King of Fighters series brings a fierce edge to the world of neko boys, making him a standout character.
14. Haru from Beastars
Haru from Beastars is an unconventional neko boy, but his adorable bunny-like features and animalistic instincts make him a fitting addition to this list. His struggle with identity and relationships in the series makes him a deeply relatable and endearing character. His personal growth and emotional struggles showcase the complexity of a neko boy’s journey.
15. Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach (Bonus)
Though Yoruichi Shihouin from Bleach is technically a woman, her ability to transform into a black cat and her confident, aloof attitude make her a perfect example of a neko character. Yoruichi’s mysterious nature and her strong presence in the Bleach universe make her a beloved character among fans of both male and female neko personalities.
Conclusion: Embrace the Neko Boys!
Whether you’re a fan of the aloof, the mischievous, or the emotionally complex neko boys, there’s no denying that these characters bring something special to the anime world. From the iconic Ikuto Tsukiyomi to the endearing Kyo Sohma, each of these neko boys has a unique blend of charm, cuteness, and depth that makes them stand out. We can only hope that anime creators continue to explore the rich world of neko boys and give us even more characters to fall in love with!
So, which of these neko boys is your favorite? Do you have any other characters you’d add to the list? Let us know in the comments below, and let’s continue celebrating the world of cute neko boys in anime!
