Choosing a name for your cat is one of those little moments that feels big. You want something that suits your cat’s personality, makes you smile every time you say it, and maybe even has a story behind it.
Whether you’ve just brought home a wobbly-legged kitten or adopted a senior cat with a mysterious past, the right name can help your feline feel like part of the family from day one. This guide covers everything from classic cat names to funny and unique picks—plus names by color, style, and pop culture inspiration.
Classic Cat Names That Never Go Out of Style
These names have stood the test of time. They’re simple, sweet, and often work whether your cat is a cuddly lap cat or a mischievous explorer.
- Luna
- Oliver
- Simba
- Milo
- Chloe
- Leo
- Whiskers
- Bella
- Max
- Cleo
Unique Cat Names to Help Your Kitty Stand Out
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, these unique cat names are full of charm and personality. Perfect for cats with quirks, flair, or mysterious past lives.
- Zephyr
- Nimbus
- Miso
- Cricket
- Rune
- Taro
- Pesto
- Jellybean
- Inky
- Thistle
Cute Cat Names for the Sweetest Companions
Some cats are just downright adorable—and their names should be too. These cute cat names are perfect for kittens or any cat that melts your heart on sight.
- Snickers – my cat and official Catpedia taste tester
- Peach
- Marshmallow
- Boo
- Daisy
- Nugget
- Bubbles
- Pudding
- Cuddles
- Lolly
Funny Cat Names That’ll Make You Smile
If your cat is a goofball, a troublemaker, or just has a face that makes you laugh, one of these funny cat names might be the perfect match.
- Chairman Meow
- Clawdia
- Meowrio
- Sir Pounce
- Cheddar
- Tofu McWhiskers
- Tuna Turnover
- Captain Floof
- Purrcules
- Wonton
Elegant Cat Names for Sophisticated Felines
Some cats just have that regal air—like they belong in a palace or on a velvet cushion. These names are timeless, graceful, and full of poise.
- Isadora
- Ambrose
- Celeste
- Theodore
- Vivienne
- Augustus
- Sebastian
- Odette
- Lysander
- Anastasia
Cool Cat Names for Trendy Tabbies and Edgy Kitties
Whether your cat gives off skater vibes or just struts like they own the room, these cool cat names are modern, punchy, and full of style.
- Jett
- Koda
- Rogue
- Ziggy
- Vega
- Blaze
- Nix
- Storm
- Onyx
- Nova
Mythical & Fantasy Cat Names for Magical Companions
From ancient legends to fantasy epics, these names are perfect for cats who seem just a little otherworldly.
- Loki
- Freya
- Merlin
- Nyx
- Athena
- Gandalf
- Fenrir
- Selene
- Thalia
- Elara
Nature-Inspired Cat Names
Love plants, weather, or earthy names? These nature-inspired picks are sweet and grounded—perfect for mellow or gentle cats.
- Willow
- Ember
- River
- Sage
- Maple
- Sky
- Hazel
- Rain
- Fern
- Stormy
Pop Culture Cat Names (TV, Movies, Books, Music)
If you’re a fan of shows, movies, games, or music, these names come straight from pop culture icons and cult classics.
- Yoda
- Wednesday
- Gizmo
- Harley
- Neo
- Arya
- Juno
- Frodo
- Sheldon
- Elsa
Cat Names by Color or Pattern
If you’re still stuck, sometimes the easiest way to pick a name is to start with what you see every day, like your cat’s color or pattern.
Black Cat Names
- Shadow
- Inky
- Licorice
- Noir
- Salem
Orange Cat Names
- Sunny
- Marmalade
- Nacho
- Copper
- Tangerine
Gray Cat Names
- Ash
- Smokey
- Silver
- Luna
- Mist
White Cat Names
- Snowball
- Ivory
- Cotton
- Frost
- Marshmallow
The Catpedia Test: How to Know You Picked the Right Name
If you’re stuck between a few choices, here are a few quick tips to help you decide:
- Say it out loud. Does it roll off the tongue?
- Try it in different tones. Will it work when you’re calling them for dinner?
- Imagine it at the vet. Will it sound weird when your vet calls it out?
- Give it a day or two. Sometimes a name settles in once you’ve lived with it.
And remember—your cat won’t judge you. If you end up calling them “Beans” even though you named them Archibald, that’s perfectly normal in our book.
Final Thoughts: Your Cat, Your Story, Your Name
At the end of the day, the best cat name is the one that makes you happy. It could be classic or wacky, elegant or silly. What matters is that it fits your cat—and your life together.
So go ahead. Name your cat Pickle, or Queen Meowza, or simply Max. They’ll love you just the same.
Have a favorite name we missed? Let us know, and we might just add it to the list!
