I immediately felt as if I was watching an early --possibly amateur or student-- version of the puppets in Mr Rogers' Neighborhood. The puppet design, vocalizations, and messaging seemed to be a student edition of what became his somewhat more sophisticated (but not that much more) PBS set pieces. Rogers' 'land of make believe' segments also were a touch creepy, but equally gentle and child like. Way, way similar puppetry if you consider these 1948 critters may be handmade, but foundational. In the 'land of make believe', Daniel Tiger's look, and even voice, were definitely a direct descendant of Animal Land's cat. And King Friday inherited its cheeks.
I would Love to know where Jeff Joseph/Sabu Cat found this original film, and how.