One of Morris Hirshfield's first paintings was Angora Cat (1937–1938), and he painted cats, often in multitudes, several times during his productive years. Featured on couches, on rugs, on grass, and in gardens, the animals stare at the viewer from faces that seem more human than feline. 

In Mother Cat with Kittens four white cats stand or lie on a burgundy rug. The fur, faces, positions, sizes, and tail shapes vary, lending interest and animation to the scene. Curves, multiple textures, and rhythmic patterning prevent stasis in the surrounding areas as well. The wave-shaped rug is enlivened by its dotted pattern, and its thin green-and-white-striped border seems to keep the animals in place. Surrounding the rug is a green background punctuated by painterly yellow slashes that change direction at a central axis. 

Lee Kogan, "Mother Cat with Kittens," in Stacy C. Hollander, American Anthem: Masterworks from the American Folk Art Museum (New York: Harry N. Abrams in association with American Folk Art Museum, 2001), 376.