The Fascinating Origin of Naming Pets
Naming pets has been a tradition for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilisations. From practical names in ancient Egypt to quirky modern-day trends, let’s take a journey through the history of how and why we name our furry companions. Choosing the best cat names has been a challenge for cat owners throughout history.
1. Ancient Egypt: Where It All Began
Ancient Egyptians revered cats, believing them to be symbols of grace and protection. Many cats were even worshipped as gods, and owning a cat was considered a sign of good fortune. Cats were often given names based on their physical traits, like Miw, which literally means “cat” in ancient Egyptian.
2. Roman Influence: Practicality First
During the Roman Empire, pets—especially dogs—were given more practical names, often based on their characteristics or role in the household. For example, dogs were frequently named things like Fido (meaning “faithful”) or Lupa (wolf). Romans often used descriptive terms that reflected a pet’s traits, much like we still do today.
3. Medieval and Renaissance Times: Status Symbols
In medieval Europe, noble families often kept pets as symbols of their status. During this period, pets were named after virtues or famous figures. Names like Rex (meaning “king”) and Noble were common, symbolising the elevated role pets had in these households.
4. Victorian Era: The Rise of Affectionate Names
The Victorian era saw a dramatic increase in the popularity of pets, especially among the middle class. Pets were no longer just working animals; they were companions. Cats and dogs started receiving affectionate, human-like names, such as Poppy, Muffin, or Max, reflecting the owners’ growing attachment to them.
5. Modern Times: Pop Culture and Creativity
Today, pet names are more creative and varied than ever, often inspired by pop culture, celebrities, or even quirky trends. Whether it’s naming a cat after a character from Star Wars like Yoda, or going for a traditional name like Bella, the possibilities are endless. With the rise of social media, many pets even have their own followings, adding to the creativity around naming!
Finding the purrfect name for your new feline friend can be tricky! Whether they’re adventurous, quirky, or just the cutest cuddle bug, this list of 300 of the best cat names will help you discover the best fit for your furry companion. Let’s dive into the alphabet and find a name that’s as unique as your cat!
Best cat names starting with A
- Alfie 🐾 – A cute and playful name, often short for Alfred.
- Artemis 🎯 – Inspired by the Greek goddess of the hunt. 🏹 Did you know? Artemis was also the protector of animals in Greek mythology!
- Angel 😇 – A soft and sweet name for a gentle, affectionate cat.
- Ash 🌫️ – Perfect for grey or smoky-coloured cats; simple yet strong.
- Aurora 🌅 – After the goddess of dawn. Did you know? Aurora Borealis is the Latin name for the Northern Lights! 🌌
- Apollo ☀️ – For a strong and regal cat, inspired by the Greek god of music and light.
- Aslan 🦁 – The majestic lion from The Chronicles of Narnia. Did you know? Aslan means “lion” in Turkish.
- Ariel 🧜♀️ – From The Little Mermaid, perfect for a playful, adventurous cat.
- Arlo 🎸 – A trendy, modern name for a cool, laid-back kitty.
- Amelia ✈️ – A strong and graceful name. Did you know? Named after Amelia Earhart, the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
Best cat names starting with B
- Bella 🌟 – A beautiful name meaning “beautiful” in Italian. Did you know? It’s one of the most popular pet names in the UK!
- Bagheera 🐆 – Inspired by the black panther from The Jungle Book, ideal for a sleek black cat.
- Boots 👢 – Great for a cat with white paws or a bit of attitude!
- Baxter 🧸 – A classic name that works well for a friendly and approachable cat.
- Biscuit 🍪 – For a sweet cat with a warm and comforting personality.
- Bobby 🎣 – A friendly, approachable name for an easygoing cat.
- Blaze 🔥 – For a fiery, energetic cat with loads of personality.
- Bubbles 🫧 – A fun and bubbly name for a playful, energetic kitten.
- Bailey 🥃 – A classic name, great for both male and female cats.
- Barney 🐻 – A cheerful, loving name, perfect for a happy-go-lucky cat.
Best cat names starting with C
- Cleo 👑 – Short for Cleopatra, a powerful name for a queenly cat.
- Casper 👻 – A fun and friendly name, especially for a white or ghostly-looking cat.
- Chester 🎩 – A classic British name, perfect for a distinguished, laid-back cat.
- Cinnamon 🌰 – For a warm-coloured, spicy little cat with a lively personality.
- Charlie 🐱 – A popular and versatile name for a happy, easygoing cat.
- Coco 🍫 – Great for a cat with a rich, dark coat.
- Cricket 🦗 – For a small, energetic, and playful kitty.
- Callie 🎨 – Short for calico, great for cats with multicoloured coats.
- Coby 😎 – A sleek and modern name for a stylish cat.
- Clara 🎼 – A sweet and feminine name. Did you know? Clara is a character in The Nutcracker ballet.
Best cat names starting with D
- Daisy 🌼 – A fresh and cheerful name for a playful and bright-eyed kitty.
- Diesel 🚚 – A tough, strong name for a confident and energetic cat.
- Dobby 🧦 – Inspired by the Harry Potter character. Did you know? Dobby was freed when presented with a sock!
- Dexter 🧐 – A clever name for a sharp, intelligent cat who’s always up to something.
- Domino 🎲 – Great for a black-and-white cat or one with unique markings.
- Duke 🤴 – For a regal cat who acts like the ruler of the household.
- Dot 🔴 – A cute name for a small or spotted cat.
- Diana 🌙 – Inspired by the Roman goddess of the moon and hunting.
- Duffy 🎶 – A fun, playful name for a lovable kitty.
- Draco 🐉 – Inspired by Harry Potter. Did you know? Draco is Latin for “dragon”.
Best cat names starting with E
- Ella 🌺 – A soft and elegant name for a graceful and refined feline.
- Ezra 📚 – A quirky yet stylish name for a unique cat.
- Ember 🔥 – A fiery name for a cat with a bold personality or a reddish coat.
- Eddie 🤗 – A friendly, approachable name for a cat who’s always by your side.
- Elsa ❄️ – After the icy queen from Frozen. Did you know? “Let it go” and embrace the cuddles!
- Echo 🌀 – A mysterious name for a cat with a mystical vibe.
- Elmo ❤️ – For a playful, happy-go-lucky cat.
- Elliot 🎥 – A strong, dependable name. Did you know? Elliot is the boy from the movie E.T..
- Evie 🌟 – A cute and playful name for a sprightly kitten.
- Eugene 🤓 – A quirky and fun name, great for a unique personality.
“Our cat ‘Bagheera’ believes he’s the panther from The Jungle Book, but watching him fail to jump onto the windowsill proves he’s more like ‘Baloo’ after a big meal!” 🐆🍽️
Best cat names starting with F
- Felix 🍀 – A classic name meaning “lucky”. Did you know? Felix the Cat was one of the first animated cartoon characters.
- Finn 🌊 – A short and sweet name for a playful and adventurous kitty.
- Fluffy ☁️ – For a long-haired cat or one who loves cuddles.
- Fiona 👑 – A strong yet elegant name. Did you know? Fiona is the princess from Shrek.
- Fudge 🍫 – Perfect for a brown or caramel-coloured cat with a sweet personality.
- Frankie 😺 – A cool, modern name for an easygoing kitty.
- Flash ⚡ – Perfect for a fast and energetic cat.
- Flora 🌷 – For a gentle, nurturing feline with a calm nature.
- Fifi 🎀 – A fun and posh name, great for a glamorous kitty.
- Fang 🦷 – A playful name for a mischievous cat. Did you know? Fang is also Hagrid’s dog in Harry Potter.
Best cat names starting with G
- Gizmo 🛠️ – Ideal for a small, mischievous cat who’s always up to something.
- Ginger 🧡 – For a fiery red or orange cat with a big personality.
- Gus 😃 – A short and playful name, perfect for a laid-back, relaxed kitty.
- Garfield 🍕 – Inspired by the famous cartoon cat who loves lasagne.
- Gracie 🌸 – A gentle, feminine name for a cat with a graceful nature.
- Gomez 🕸️ – A mysterious name inspired by The Addams Family.
- George 🐒 – A classic, charming name. Did you know? Think of Curious George for a curious kitty!
- Gigi 💃 – A cute, stylish name for a little diva cat.
- Ghost 👻 – Perfect for a white or sneaky cat. Did you know? Ghost is the name of Jon Snow’s direwolf in Game of Thrones.
- Gatsby 🎉 – Inspired by The Great Gatsby, for a stylish, debonair cat.
Best cat names starting with H
- Harry ⚡ – A friendly name. Did you know? Inspired by Harry Potter, the boy who lived.
- Hazel 👁️ – For a cat with beautiful hazel eyes or a warm personality.
- Hercules 💪 – A bold name for a strong and confident cat.
- Honey 🍯 – Sweet and warm, great for a cat with a golden or caramel coat.
- Holly 🎄 – A festive name for a cat who brings joy all year round.
- Harvey 😊 – A friendly, approachable name for a loyal kitty.
- Hobbes 🐯 – For the adventurous cat, inspired by Calvin and Hobbes.
- Hendrix 🎸 – For a rockstar kitty with lots of personality.
- Hope 🌈 – A positive, uplifting name for a sweet and loving cat.
- Huckleberry 🍇 – A playful, old-fashioned name for a curious and quirky cat.
Best cat names starting with I
- Ivy 🌿 – Simple and elegant, perfect for a cat with a delicate nature.
- Indigo 💜 – For a dark, mysterious cat with striking features.
- Izzy 🎈 – A fun and playful name, great for a mischievous little cat.
- Inky 🖋️ – Ideal for a black cat or one with deep, inky markings.
- Iris 🌈 – A floral name that’s both strong and feminine.
- Ice ❄️ – Perfect for a cool, aloof cat with a white or pale coat.
- Iago 🎭 – For a clever and mischievous cat. Did you know? Iago is a character in Shakespeare’s Othello.
- Indie 🌟 – A fun and independent name for a cat with a unique personality.
- Icarus ☀️ – Inspired by Greek mythology. Did you know? Icarus flew too close to the sun.
- Ivory 🦴 – A classic, nature-inspired name for a cat with a pale coat.
Best cat names starting with J
- Jasper 💎 – A strong and stylish name. Did you know? Jasper is a semi-precious gemstone.
- Jinx 🐾 – For a mischievous kitty who always keeps you on your toes.
- Jack 🎃 – A classic and versatile name. Think of Jack and the Beanstalk or Jack Sparrow.
- Juno 🌙 – After the Roman goddess, a strong and elegant name.
- Jellybean 🍬 – A fun and quirky name for a colourful or sweet-natured cat.
- Jagger 🎤 – For a rockstar cat with loads of attitude.
- Jade 💚 – A lovely name for a green-eyed or beautiful kitty.
- Jolly 😊 – For a cheerful and friendly cat.
- Josie 🎀 – A cute and classic name for a sweet kitty.
- Jet ✈️ – For a sleek, black cat who’s quick on their paws.
“Ever since we named our cat ‘Loki’, we’ve noticed the toilet roll mysteriously unravel itself at night—turns out the god of mischief lives up to his name!” 😂
Best cat names starting with K
- Kitty 🐱 – A simple and classic choice, perfect for a playful and curious cat.
- Kiwi 🥝 – For a small, zesty, and fun-loving cat.
- Koda 🐻 – A strong and unique name. Did you know? Koda means “friend” in Native American languages.
- Kiki 🎠 – A playful and quirky name, ideal for an active kitty.
- King 👑 – Perfect for a regal cat who rules your house.
- Kira 🌌 – A sleek, elegant name for a mysterious kitty.
- Knox 🛡️ – A bold name for a cat with a strong, independent streak.
- Kash 💰 – A cool, modern name for a stylish kitty.
- Karma ☯️ – A mystical name for a cat with a calming presence.
- Kip 💤 – A short, fun name for a playful and lively cat.
Best cat names starting with L
- Leo 🦁 – A bold name for a brave and fearless cat.
- Luna 🌙 – Inspired by the moon, a beautiful name for a mystical cat.
- Loki 🎭 – For a mischievous trickster who’s always getting into trouble.
- Lola 💃 – A fun and stylish name for a cat who loves attention.
- Lucky 🍀 – A classic name for a rescue or any special cat.
- Lila 🌺 – A sweet and soft name, perfect for a gentle cat.
- Louie 🎷 – A stylish name for a debonair kitty.
- Lulu 🎀 – A fun, quirky name for a playful kitten.
- Lynx 🐾 – For a wild, fierce cat with striking features.
- Lance ⚔️ – A noble name for a strong, confident feline.
Best cat names starting with M
- Milo 🐾 – A popular and sweet name, perfect for a fun-loving cat.
- Misty 🌁 – A soft and gentle name, ideal for a grey or mysterious cat.
- Mittens 🧤 – For a cat with adorable paws or a nurturing personality.
- Max 🦸♂️ – A strong and classic name for a confident cat.
- Mango 🥭 – A fun, tropical name for a bright and zesty cat.
- Moose 🦌 – For a big or gentle giant of a cat.
- Marley 🎶 – A laid-back name. Did you know? Inspired by Bob Marley.
- Mochi 🍡 – A cute, sweet name for a cuddly cat.
- Maple 🍁 – Perfect for a cat with a warm, golden coat.
- Muffin 🧁 – A sweet, comforting name for a soft, fluffy cat.
Best cat names starting with N
- Nala 🦁 – Inspired by The Lion King, perfect for a bold and regal cat.
- Nico 🎧 – A cool and stylish name for a unique, sleek cat.
- Noodle 🍜 – A quirky and fun name for a long, slender cat.
- Nova 🌟 – A starry name for a cat who’s out of this world.
- Nutmeg 🌰 – A spicy name for a cat with a warm and lively personality.
- Nacho 🌶️ – For a cheesy, fun-loving cat with a spicy side.
- Nina 🌼 – A simple, elegant name for a quiet, graceful cat.
- Napoleon 🎖️ – For a cat with a big personality and sense of command.
- Neville 📖 – Inspired by Harry Potter. Did you know? Neville Longbottom becomes a hero!
- Nelly 🎀 – A cute, sweet name for a loving kitty.
Best cat names starting with O
- Oliver 🎩 – A classic British name, perfect for a friendly cat.
- Opal 💎 – A gem of a name for a cat with striking features.
- Oreo 🍪 – For a black-and-white cat who’s as sweet as a cookie.
- Oscar 🏆 – A stylish name for a distinguished, independent cat.
- Olive 🫒 – A soft name for a nurturing and affectionate kitty.
- Otis 🎶 – A vintage, cool name. Think of Otis Redding.
- Onyx 🖤 – For a sleek, black cat with a mysterious air.
- Ozzy 🎤 – For a wild, rockstar cat. Did you know? Inspired by Ozzy Osbourne.
- Orla 🌟 – A unique, stylish name meaning “golden princess” in Irish.
- Ollie 😊 – A friendly name for an easygoing cat.
“Our cat ‘Nacho’ keeps sitting in our favourite chair. Every time we try to move him, we end up saying, ‘That’s Nacho seat!'” 😹
Best cat names starting with P
- Pumpkin 🎃 – For an orange or chubby kitty who’s full of warmth.
- Poppy 🌺 – A bright and cheerful name for a lively cat.
- Peanut 🥜 – A cute name for a small or delicate cat.
- Pippa 🎀 – A playful name for a dainty little cat.
- Percy 📜 – A classic name with British flair.
- Pixie 🧚 – For a small, magical kitty who’s full of energy.
- Pablo 🎨 – A fun name. Did you know? Inspired by artist Pablo Picasso.
- Pepper 🌶️ – For a cat with a bit of spice.
- Piper 🎼 – A playful name for an energetic kitty.
- Pluto 🔭 – Inspired by the dwarf planet or Disney character.
Best cat names starting with Q
- Quincy 🎩 – A regal and sophisticated name.
- Queenie 👑 – For a cat who rules the house with elegance.
- Quinn 🆒 – A stylish, gender-neutral name.
- Quirk 🌀 – For a cat with a unique personality.
- Quartz 💎 – Ideal for a cat with striking features.
- Quintus 🛡️ – For a regal cat with a noble spirit.
- Quokka 😄 – A quirky, fun name. Did you know? Quokkas are known as the happiest animals!
- Queso 🧀 – For a cheesy, lovable kitty.
- Quasar 🌌 – A cosmic name for a starry-eyed cat.
- Quill ✒️ – For a creative and curious kitty.
Best cat names starting with R
- Rosie 🌹 – A sweet name for a soft and gentle cat.
- Rufus 🐾 – A classic name for a ginger or fun-loving cat.
- Remy 🍷 – A cool, French-inspired name.
- Rascal 😼 – For a mischievous cat who’s always causing chaos.
- Raven 🖤 – A dark and mysterious name, perfect for a black cat.
- Rocco 🥊 – For a tough, rugged cat with charm.
- Rusty 🧡 – Perfect for a ginger or reddish-brown kitty.
- Rio 🎶 – A cool, modern name for a fun-loving cat.
- Riley 😺 – A stylish, gender-neutral name.
- Romeo ❤️ – For a loving cat with a sweet nature.
Best cat names starting with S
- Simba 🦁 – Inspired by The Lion King, great for a brave cat.
- Socks 🧦 – For a cat with white paws or unique markings.
- Smokey 🌫️ – Ideal for a grey or smoky-coloured cat.
- Sophie 🌺 – A timeless, elegant name.
- Sushi 🍣 – A quirky name for a playful kitty.
- Sable 🐾 – For a dark, sleek, and mysterious kitty.
- Scout 🧭 – Perfect for an adventurous, curious cat.
- Shadow 👥 – For a stealthy feline who loves to follow you.
- Spock 🖖 – Inspired by Star Trek. Did you know? Spock is half-Vulcan, half-human.
- Sprout 🌱 – A cute name for a small but feisty kitten.
Best cat names starting with T
- Tigger 🐯 – A bouncy, energetic name.
- Tiger 🐅 – For a fierce kitty with a wild side.
- Tilly 🎀 – A cute name for a dainty little cat.
- Toffee 🍬 – For a sweet, caramel-coloured kitty.
- Theo 📚 – A strong yet soft name.
- Taco 🌮 – A quirky name for a cat full of personality.
- Thor ⚡ – For a strong, powerful cat. Did you know? Thor is the Norse god of thunder.
- Tulip 🌷 – A sweet, floral name.
- Tito 🎵 – A cute, short name.
- Tess 📖 – A classic name. Think of Tess of the d’Urbervilles.
“We thought naming our cat ‘Shadow’ was clever until we realised calling for her in the dark made us sound a bit mad—’Shadow! Where are you?’ And the neighbours think we’re talking to ourselves!” 🌚
Best cat names starting with U
- Ursula 🐙 – A bold name. Did you know? Ursula is the sea witch in The Little Mermaid.
- Uma 🌟 – Short, simple, and stylish.
- Uno 1️⃣ – For a cat who’s one of a kind.
- Ulysses 🌊 – A powerful name for a cat with an adventurous spirit.
- Ulric 🛡️ – A strong and unique name.
- Unity ☮️ – For a cat who brings harmony to your home.
- Utah 🏜️ – A cool name for an adventurous cat.
- Ulani 🌺 – A unique, mystical name meaning “cheerful” in Hawaiian.
- Umi 🌊 – A short, sweet name meaning “sea” in Japanese.
- Urchin 🌊 – For a mischievous cat who’s always into something.
Best cat names starting with V
- Violet 💜 – A soft and pretty name.
- Vince 🎬 – A strong, classic name.
- Velvet 🐈 – For a soft, luxurious cat with a silky coat.
- Vera 🌹 – A vintage name with a timeless feel.
- Vixen 🦊 – A playful name for a sassy kitty.
- Vesper 🌆 – A mysterious name for a cat who loves the evening.
- Venus 💫 – Inspired by the goddess of love.
- Vader 🌑 – For a powerful, dark-furred kitty. Did you know? Inspired by Darth Vader.
- Vanya 🌿 – A soft, unique name.
- Vivi 🎉 – A cute name for an energetic kitty.
Best cat names starting with W
- Whiskers 😺 – A classic name for a cat with adorable whiskers.
- Willow 🌳 – A soft and graceful name.
- Whiskey 🥃 – A strong name for a bold cat.
- Winnie 🐻 – A cute name. Did you know? Inspired by Winnie the Pooh.
- Wolfie 🐺 – For a cat with a wild spirit.
- Waldo 🕵️ – A quirky name for a cat who’s always hiding. “Where’s Waldo?”
- Wiggles 🌀 – For a playful, wriggly kitten.
- Winter ❄️ – A cool name for a white or frosty-coated kitty.
- Waffles 🧇 – For a sweet, golden cat.
- Wren 🐦 – A delicate, bird-inspired name.
Best cat names starting with X
- Xander ⚔️ – A strong, unique name.
- Xena ⚔️ – Inspired by the warrior princess.
- Xerxes 👑 – A regal name for a majestic cat.
- Xavi 🏀 – A cool and modern name.
- Xyla 🎶 – A strong name for a one-of-a-kind cat.
- Xeno 🛸 – For a futuristic kitty.
- Xanthe 🌼 – Meaning “golden”, perfect for a golden cat.
- Xylo 🎹 – A rhythmic name for a musical cat.
Best cat names starting with Y
- Yoda 🛸 – Inspired by the wise Jedi Master. “Judge me by my size, do you?”
- Yuki ❄️ – A Japanese name meaning “snow”, ideal for a white cat.
- Yara 🌊 – A short and pretty name.
- Yasmine 🌸 – A floral name for a delicate cat.
- York 🏰 – A strong, regal name.
- Yogi 🧘♂️ – For a calm, Zen-like kitty.
- Yumi 🍬 – A sweet name, perfect for a gentle kitty.
- Yanni 🎼 – For a musical cat with a calm demeanour.
- Yule 🎄 – A festive name for a kitty born around Christmas.
Best cat names starting with Z
- Ziggy ⚡ – A fun and quirky name. Did you know? Inspired by Ziggy Stardust, David Bowie’s alter ego.
- Zelda 🗡️ – A bold name, inspired by the legendary video game princess.
- Zoe 🌞 – A classic name meaning “life”.
- Zorro 🦊 – For a sleek, mysterious cat. “Zorro” means “fox” in Spanish.
- Zinnia 🌼 – A floral name for a colourful cat.
- Zeus ⚡ – For a powerful, godlike cat.
- Zara 👗 – A stylish, regal name.
- Zane 📖 – A cool, modern name.
- Zuzu 🎈 – A fun, quirky name for an energetic kitty.
- Zena 🛡️ – For a warrior kitty full of courage.
“Meet ‘Sir Whiskers’, the knight who bravely protects the realm of Sofa from the evil vacuum cleaner. His valiant efforts have saved us countless times!” 🛡️🐱
With over 300 fantastic options, there’s a name here for every type of cat—whether they’re playful, regal, or downright mischievous. Remember, a great name can reflect your cat’s unique personality, so take your time and find the one that resonates with you and your kitty. Happy naming!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right name from such a large list?
Begin by narrowing down the names that resonate with you or match your cat’s appearance and personality. Consider making a shortlist of your favourites and see which one your cat seems to respond to best. Sometimes spending a few days trying out different names can help you find the perfect fit.
Is it okay to rename my cat if they’ve already been called something else?
Yes, especially if your cat is still young or new to your home. Cats can adapt to a new name with consistency and positive reinforcement. Just make sure to use the new name regularly and associate it with treats or affection.
Should I choose a name based on my cat’s appearance or personality?
Either approach works well. Names based on appearance are instantly fitting, while personality-based names can highlight unique traits. Sometimes, a combination of both can lead to the perfect name.
Are there any names I should avoid for my cat?
It’s best to avoid names that sound similar to common commands (like “No” or “Sit”) or words you frequently use, as this might confuse your cat. Also, consider whether you’re comfortable calling out the name in public places like the vet’s office.
Your Cat’s Story
Calling all cat enthusiasts and lovers of all things furry and fabulous! Does your moggy go by a name that’s the cat’s whiskers? Perhaps you’ve christened your feline friend ‘Sir Purr-a-lot’ due to his incessant purring, or ‘Madam Mittens’ because she simply won’t stop playing with your socks.
We’re all ears (and tails!) to hear the marvellous stories behind your cat’s name. Share your whiskered companion’s name and the tale that makes it so purr-fect in the link below. Don’t forget to include a snapshot of your fabulous feline—after all, a picture is worth a thousand meows!
Who knows? Your charming kitty might just claw their way into a feature on our blog. So, hop to it! Let’s turn this corner of the internet into a celebration of quirky names and the lovable cats who wear them so well.
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