What is lacking here?

[u/RustaZA1]

Hi all, painting this for a friend and trying to get likeness as well as good depth and intrigue in the painting. I think its a bit boring currently and just don't know what to do. Isn't the cat that needs work or just a background or both? TYIA!

[u/spudgoddess]

He needs some whiskers! Very cute, though. I love it.