From tiny witch hats to strawberry bonnets, these free crochet cat hat patterns are almost too cute to handle.
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Cats already act like they rule the house, so naturally, someone decided they needed crowns. And witch hats. And little dinosaur costumes.
I can’t promise your cat will appreciate your crochet efforts, but I can promise there are some ridiculously adorable patterns out there.
I’ve gathered 15 free crochet hat patterns for cats, including whimsical woodland designs, silly animal hats, and festive accessories for holidays throughout the year. Some are simple enough for beginners, while others involve a little more shaping and detail.
And yes, they’re all actual hats for cats. Not cat-ear beanies for humans!
Before You Crochet: A Quick Note About Your Cat
As cute as these little hats are, not every cat enjoys wearing accessories. Some will tolerate a quick photo, while others will make their objections abundantly clear.
Always let your cat’s comfort come first. Keep any dress-up sessions brief and supervised, avoid tight ties or small decorations that could be swallowed, and never leave your cat unattended wearing a hat.
If your cat isn’t interested, these patterns can still make adorable decorations or accessories for stuffed animals.
What You’ll Need to Crochet a Cat Hat
Most of these projects are small, making them a fun way to use up leftover yarn. That little ball of orange you’ve been saving? It might be just enough for a pumpkin hat.
Your supplies will depend on the pattern, but you’ll generally need:
- Yarn in the colors and weights specified by the designer
- An appropriately sized crochet hook
- A yarn needle
- Scissors
- Stitch markers, depending on the construction
If you need to restock your crochet essentials, you can browse my Amazon Crochet Supplies Idea List.
For a budget-friendly yarn option, I’ve also been using Hello Hobby Cotton Yarn from Walmart in an upcoming crochet pattern. You’ll be seeing more of that project soon!
Just check each designer’s yarn recommendations before substituting. Changing yarn weight or hook size can make a big difference when you’re crocheting something this small.
Whimsical Crochet Hats for Cats
These are the hats that make you wonder who first looked at a perfectly respectable cat and decided it needed to dress like a frog.
1. Dino Cat Hat — CrochetingHermit
Some cats already behave like tiny prehistoric predators. This dinosaur hat simply makes the resemblance official.
The design adds playful dinosaur details to a crocheted cat hat, making it a fun choice for pet photos or a handmade gift for someone who loves both cats and dinosaurs.
Pattern: Free Dino Cat Hat on Ribblr
2. Strawberry Shortcake Cat Hat — V4mpGutz
This Strawberry Shortcake-inspired hat brings a little nostalgic sweetness to the collection.
With its pink, white, and green color palette, it’s a particularly cute choice for springtime photos or anyone who loves vintage-inspired characters.
Pattern: Free Strawberry Shortcake Cat Hat on Ribblr
3. Figaro Frog Cat Hat — Catventurous Crochet
A cat dressed as a frog. I don’t think this needs much explanation.
This frog-inspired bonnet features the distinctive raised eyes that make frog hats so recognizable. The free video tutorial is a useful option if you prefer watching a project come together rather than following written instructions.
Pattern: Free Figaro Frog Cat Hat Video Tutorial
4. Crochet Mushroom Hat for Cats — EmilyH172
This one belongs in a tiny woodland cottage, preferably occupied by a cat who considers itself the local forest guardian.
The mushroom-inspired design is an especially good fit for cottagecore lovers, woodland-themed photos, and anyone who appreciates a little whimsical crochet.
Pattern: Free Crochet Mushroom Hat for Cats on Instructables
5. Crochet Cat Unicorn Hat — Shooting Star Crafts
For the cat who is already convinced it’s a magical creature.
This playful unicorn design adds a horn and colorful mane to a tiny crocheted hat. It’s a fun departure from traditional seasonal accessories and brings a little fantasy to the roundup.
Pattern: Free Crochet Cat Unicorn Hat
Pretty Flowers, Bonnets, and Crowns
Not every cat hat needs to be a costume. Some are simply charming little accessories, although your cat may have a different opinion.
6. Crochet Flower Hat — Sir Purl Grey
This flower-petal hat turns your cat into a walking blossom.
The pet-sized design is a lovely option for spring, garden-themed photos, or using up small amounts of colorful yarn.
Pattern: Free Crochet Flower Hat for Pets
7. Flower Lily Cat Hat — Veraquin
Another floral design, but with a different look from the traditional petal bonnet.
This lily-inspired hat adds variety to the collection and is a good choice for anyone who enjoys crochet flowers and unusual accessories.
Pattern: Free Flower Lily Cat Hat on LoveCrafts
8. Cat Flower Beret Hat — EvieCrochetKitties
A flower beret for a cat is exactly the sort of unnecessary luxury I can appreciate.
This Ribblr design offers another take on the floral theme, combining the appeal of a tiny beret with decorative flower details.
Pattern: Free Cat Flower Beret Hat on Ribblr
9. Ruffled Pet Bonnet — WillowTreeCrochet76
If you love the old-fashioned look of a crocheted bonnet, this is one to investigate.
The ruffled style offers a softer, more traditional alternative to the novelty hats, making it suitable for a vintage-inspired photo or a small handmade accessory.
Pattern: Free Pet Hat Bonnet on Ribblr
10. Crochet Cat Crown — Spotted Horse Design Co.
Finally, a hat that accurately reflects a cat’s opinion of its own importance.
This tiny crown is especially appropriate for birthdays, adoption anniversaries, or any ordinary Tuesday when your cat demands royal treatment.
The designer includes instructions for adjusting the size, and you can leave off optional beads for a simpler, safer photo accessory.
Pattern: Free Crochet Cat Crown Pattern
If you enjoy small, decorative projects like these, you might also like my 24 Free Crochet Garland and Bunting Patterns for Every Season.
Holiday Crochet Hats for Cats
From Halloween to Christmas and Valentine’s Day, these patterns offer plenty of opportunities for seasonal photos. Whether your cat agrees to participate is another matter.
11. Crochet Witch Hat for Cats — Nicki’s Homemade Crafts
A tiny witch hat is practically required for any cat with a mysterious streak.
This free pattern uses single crochet and includes openings for your cat’s ears. It’s a fun Halloween project that could work in classic black or a more colorful witchy palette.
Pattern: Free Crochet Cat Witch Hat
12. Pumpkin Cat Hat — Seaside_Stitches
This pumpkin-themed design brings a little seasonal color to the roundup and offers another free option for crocheters who enjoy making Halloween accessories.
Pattern: Free Pumpkin Cat Hat on Ribblr
13. Crochet Santa Hat for Cats — Nicki’s Homemade Crafts
Christmas photos are about to become considerably more entertaining.
This miniature Santa hat features the familiar red body, white trim, and pom-pom. The designer provides free written instructions for a cat-sized version.
Pattern: Free Crochet Cat Santa Hat
14. Crochet Elf Hat for Cats — Nicki’s Homemade Crafts
If Santa needs a helper, your cat is probably not volunteering. But that doesn’t mean you can’t crochet the hat.
This festive elf design features a pointed top and decorative brim. It’s another free written pattern from Nicki’s Homemade Crafts.
Pattern: Free Crochet Cat Elf Hat
Looking for more handmade holiday projects? My Easy Crochet Christmas Gifts You Can Actually Finish roundup has plenty of ideas for gifts beyond tiny pet accessories.
15. Adorable Valentine’s Day Cat Hat — Spiderpoop
A little Valentine’s-themed hat makes a sweet finishing touch to this collection.
It’s a fun choice for February photos, handmade Valentine’s surprises, or simply celebrating the tiny creature who has somehow taken over your entire household.
Pattern: Free Valentine’s Day Cat Hat on Ribblr
Tips for Crocheting a Hat That Fits Your Cat
Crocheting for cats is a little different from making hats for people. The projects may be smaller, but fit and comfort matter just as much.
Check the measurements. Cats come in different sizes, and a hat designed for one adult cat may not fit another. Follow the designer’s sizing guidance rather than assuming every pattern will work for your pet.
Choose comfortable yarn. Look for yarn that feels soft against the skin and avoid scratchy fibers or loose decorations that might irritate your cat.
Pay attention to ear placement. Some patterns have ear openings, while others sit between or in front of the ears. Neither style will suit every cat.
Keep embellishments secure. Avoid beads, bells, loose pom-poms, and other small pieces that could become choking hazards.
Respect your cat’s opinion. If your cat seems uncomfortable, skip the hat. A cute photograph isn’t worth upsetting your pet.
Which Crochet Cat Hat Will You Make First?
For autumn photos, it’s hard to beat a cat dressed as a pumpkin.
I have to admit, the mushroom hat and dinosaur hat are particularly tempting. Although there’s something wonderfully appropriate about crocheting a crown for a cat who already behaves like royalty.
Whether you’re making a tiny witch hat for Halloween, a flower bonnet for spring, or a Santa hat for Christmas, these free patterns offer plenty of opportunities to use up yarn scraps and make something delightfully silly.
Just remember: the crochet is for you. The decision to wear it belongs to the cat.
For more handmade projects, browse my Crochet Patterns and Tutorials.
