Bastet

[Isis]

Why is Bastet depicted as a cat? Don't get me wrong; I love cats, but I am not sure why she has that particular aspect.

 

[eirine hatsumi]

I remember the legend about Ra sending his eye to punish the evildoers. Ra sent his eye (in some versions it's Hathor, can be Sekhmet, or can be Bast/Bastet) and this goddess (whoever she is) slaughter the mankind with pleasure. Ra felt that it must end and enough, so he tricked the goddess by getting drunk (the color of the beer is similar to that of blood) , having this "blood" drank, the goddess went drunk and Ra gave her his blessings and from a savage one (also depicted as savage as a lion) this goddess become as gentle as a cat. (not sure about the exact story though)

this is just one of the numerous accounts I've heard of, don't sure, however, if this is the right answer though. lol

 

[LegendofJoe]

I'm only making a guess here, but Bastet is associated with pleasure.
Cats seem to love lounging around and playing, so who else better to represent pleasure?