I’m writing this because I’ve always been fascinated by the heartwarming and sometimes surprising bonds between the cats, dragons, and humans in this tale. For fellow cat lovers and fantasy fans, there’s no better time to explore these characters—especially with the upcoming anime adaptation on the horizon.
Spoiler Alert: This article contains major spoilers from The Cat and the Dragon series.
A Brief Overview of The Cat and the Dragon
Originally a Japanese light novel series written by Amara, The Cat and the Dragon (Neko to Ryuu) has captured the hearts of readers since its initial release on the user-generated novel website Shōsetsuka ni Narō. It has evolved into printed volumes published by Takarajimasha, spawned a manga adaptation illustrated by Izumi Sasaki (with ten volumes as of 2024), and recently announced an anime adaptation on National Cat Day (February 22, 2025).
The story centers on a dragon raised among cats—creatures capable of their own unique magic—and the often-comedic, sometimes poignant adventures that result when humans join the fray. Below, we’ll explore key characters, referencing specific volumes and chapters to give you a detailed look at how their stories interweave.
The Cat Dragon (“Uncle Wing”)
Backstory & Role
In Volume 1, Chapter 1, the dragon’s egg is laid by its original mother deep in a magical forest. Tragically, that mother dragon is soon hunted by humans and does not return, leaving the buried egg vulnerable. A mother cat—later known as “Mama Nyan”—gives birth to her kittens right above the hidden egg, unwittingly incubating it.
When the young dragon hatches (just four days after the kittens’ birth), it regards these cats as its true siblings. Over time, this dragon grows into a fire-breathing, winged guardian that the cats affectionately call “Uncle Wing” or “the Cat Dragon.” Humans, in turn, label it the “Cat Dragon” after an early encounter with a king in Volume 2, Chapter 2, where the dragon makes it clear that it identifies more with cats than with typical dragonkind.
Relationships
Uncle Wing is deeply protective of cats. He shows open hostility to anyone harming them, even launching swift retribution if a cat is threatened. Though he slowly warms to humans, trust does not come easily. He observes from the forest’s edge, especially after witnessing earlier cat hunts by humans (recounted in Volume 3, Chapter 4).
Role with Devils
Though devils and demons appear sporadically in short stories, it’s implied that Mama Nyan once sheltered a demon kitten. The Cat Dragon itself occasionally assists in taming or chasing off minor devils that wander too close to the forest, but these incidents are more side anecdotes found in Volume 5, Chapter 3 than central plot points.
Mama Nyan (The Mother Cat)
Background
Mama Nyan first appears in Volume 1, Chapter 1, mothering a litter of kittens alongside the dragon egg. Her gentle yet formidable nature becomes more apparent in Volume 2, Chapter 3, when she’s unexpectedly summoned by a human girl named Annerossa (a budding royal magician).
Relationships & Role
- She cares for the young dragon, effectively raising it as part of her own brood.
- Over time, Mama Nyan gains unusual powers by consuming magical creatures called “Carbuncles,” which eventually grants her longevity.
- She also helps raise other beings (including minor demons), showing an uncanny knack for motherly care that transcends species.
Notable Episodes
Mama Nyan’s emotional homecoming to the forest to reunite with Uncle Wing is a highlight of Volume 3, Chapter 5. This tender moment underscores her vital role in the dragon’s life and reveals how deeply the two remain bonded.
The King
Initial Encounters
In Volume 2, Chapter 2, we meet the king who forms a truce with the dragon. Fascinated yet wary of a creature that breathes fire and flies at will, he offers a peace pact to protect cats—ultimately easing tensions.
Evolving Friendship
Various successors to the throne appear in Volume 4, Chapter 1 and Volume 6, Chapter 3, each inheriting the alliance with the Cat Dragon. While some monarchs are friendlier than others, the unbroken treaty that spares cats from persecution remains a cornerstone of peace.
Annerossa (The Summoner)
Role & Character Arc
First introduced in Volume 2, Chapter 3, Annerossa accidentally summons Mama Nyan. A timid girl at the start, she gradually becomes more confident, eventually becoming a formidable court magician and later a magic-school headmistress.
Relationships
- She develops a deep, familial bond with Mama Nyan, who influences her shift from shy to more easygoing.
- Annerossa’s longevity also increases, hinted at in Volume 4, Chapter 4, possibly due to the magical resonance with Mama Nyan.
Other Notable Cats
- Kurobane (The Black Cat Adventurer)
Featured throughout Volume 3, Chapter 2 and beyond, Kurobane pairs up with a young prince, teaching him secret spells. This partnership starts the tradition of cats occasionally tutoring royal heirs in magic. - Shirotae (The White Cat Mentor)
Debuts in Volume 3, Chapter 5, guiding reluctant students of magic. Shirotae’s strict yet caring teaching style contrasts with Kurobane’s adventurous spirit, adding extra depth to the cat community.
FINAL THOUGHT
I love how The Cat and the Dragon balances heartwarming moments with flashes of both humor and gravity. The idea of a fire-breathing dragon acting like an overly protective cat uncle never fails to captivate me, and I can’t wait to see how the anime adaptation brings these bonds to life on screen.
From the nurturing presence of Mama Nyan to the evolving relationships with humans, the characters of The Cat and the Dragon show us a world where species lines blur, and genuine kindness prevails. I personally find the mix of whimsical storytelling and subtle emotional depth delightful—especially for us cat lovers.
