The Cat Who Went to Heaven

Set in ancient Japan, the story is about a struggling artist and his cat. When his housekeeper brings the cat home, he is at first angered but then grows more attached after he gets a painting commission from the head priest. Thinking that the cast has brought him luck, the artist includes his pet in the painting. But the priest is angry that the cat doesn't accept the teachings of Buddha and orders the animal destroyed. But Buddha has other ideas.