The Ultimate Guide to the Best Male & Female Cat Names for Your Pet

You’ve just brought your kitten home and bought everything you need to prepare for their arrival. However, what you might not have thought about is what you’re going to name them! It can be exciting but overwhelming trying to find the perfect cat name for your new companion, especially when there are so many to choose from.

It’s important to find a name for your cat that reflects both their appearance and personality, as well as a subtle (or not so subtle) nod to your own interests. In this ultimate guide, we cover a wider variety of name categories. Whether you’re looking for female cat names, male or gender-free ones, we have plenty of suggestions. We also have other choices, including popular and cute cat names for different coloured cats, unique theme-inspired names, and special kitten names. Read on to find the perfect cat name for yours.

How to choose a cute kitten name

Often, the best cat names are ones which are unique to your pet. We’ve all known a ‘Fluffy’, ‘Mittens’ and a ‘Max’, but the truly memorable ones are those which reflect their personality traits, appearance, and temperament, as well as the cat’s breed. Picking a short, distinctive and easy-to-pronounce name will also help your cat to learn their own name when you call them (and speaking of calling them, it may seem hilarious to name your new kitten ‘Fluffy Bum’, but it can be pretty embarrassing calling out for them when it’s time to come in). Try calling a potential name out to see how it sounds, and see if they respond. Who knows, they might even pick their own name (remember ‘Beethoven?’), or be named after their favourite food (‘Biscuits’), their favourite toy (‘Mouse’), or their unique markings (‘Dotty’).

Most Popular Cat Names

There’s a reason why certain cat names are popular amongst cat owners. These cute cat names stand the test of time for good reason; they suit most cats really well. They’re simple and cover a range of personalities, suiting cats of different breeds. Check out some kitten names for your new friend below.

Cute Cat Names for Every Gender

Choosing a cute cat name depending on your cat’s gender can personalise the naming process. Female cat names often mirror their grace and elegance, while male cat names indicate their confidence and playfulness. For instance, a girl cat name such as Luna can reflect their soft and gentle charm, while a boy cat name like Simba has connotations of charisma and energy.

Check out our lists of male and female cat names, as well as gender-free alternatives.

Top 10 Female Cat Names

Here are the top 10 most beloved girl cat names:

• Luna - Works for both light and dark coloured cats, reflecting a mystic elegance associated with the moon.
• Nala - A popular reference to The Lion King, this name has obvious regal connotations.
• Bella - Since it means ‘Beautiful’ in Italian, you can compliment your cat every time you call them.
• Coco - A simple but fun kitten name for different coat colours and breeds.
• Willow - Like the wisdom of a Willow tree, this cat name is great for exhibiting intelligence.
• Lily - A particularly cute cat name, Lily works well for any girl cat.
• Daisy - Like Lily, Daisy is another female cat name that has proven popular.
• Rosie - Another floral name that reflects the beauty and elegance of feline friends.
• Mia - This is a popular girl cat name, and also translates to ‘mine’ in Spanish, reflecting your bond.
• Cleo - Like ‘Cleopatra’, this kitten name oozes with regal elegance and rich history.

Top 10 Male Cat Names

If you have a boy cat, here are the top 10 male cat names:

• Simba - Like The Lion King, this kitten name is a great way to honour the strength of your boy cat.
• Oliver - This name blends both charm and mischief, accurate for the personality of many male cats.
• Milo - Another cute cat name, this one has been around for a long time. 
• Jasper - This is also a traditional cat name, offering a vintage but boyish charm.
• Loki - Like the Norse god and Marvel comics, this boy cat name is great for mischievous cats.
• Max - A short but sweet name, this easily rolls off the tongue for playful cats.
• Charlie - This cat name is a classic and great for friendly cats of all breeds.
• Oscar - With the meaning ‘gentle friend’, this could apply perfectly to your feline friend.
• Leo - Another lion-inspired name, this also indicates the strength of your male cat.
• Gus - Short for Augustus, which means ‘magnificent’, this kitten name works as a compliment too.

Top 10 Gender-Free Cat Names

On the other hand, you may not want to choose a male or female cat name. Instead, you might choose to opt for something gender-free. Unisex names are suitable for a broad range of cats. Here are the top 10 most popular gender-free cat names:

• Smokey - This cute cat name has been around for a while and works well for mysterious cats.
• Lucky - What better way to honour your cat than to refer to them as your ‘lucky charm’?
• Paws - This works as both a male and female cat name, especially if their paws are a prominent feature.
• Shadow - Another mysterious name, this can work well for dark-coloured cats that are on the quieter side.
• Teddy - A cute cat name for a variety of cat breeds, especially those with beautiful coats.
• Kitty - Simple but effective, this kitten name is great for all types of playful cats.
• Pepper - Like the spice, this name could work for fiery cats, although it could also work for dark-coloured coats.
• Sunny - If your cat lights up your life, then Sunny would be the perfect name.
• Whiskers - This kitten name works well for any breed.
• Peanut - A cute cat name for smaller-sized cats, especially when they’re kittens.

Cute Cat Names for Every Personality

Every cat is a unique individual, which is why it’s common for cat owners to choose a name for their cat based on their personality. This way, when you’re calling your cat, you’re capturing their character every time. For instance, shy cats may have a softer name like Luna or Misty, while playful cats could have more exciting names like Ziggy or Bubbles to capture their lively energy.

Similarly, regal cats would suit a more majestic name such as Cleo or Simba. If your cat is particularly affectionate, you may want a cute cat name like Honey or Teddy. On the other hand, mischievous cats can have a name like Loki or Socks. It’s all about choosing a name that feels natural for your cat, depending on their behaviour and connection with you. By choosing a personalised name, you can truly resonate with your cat’s spirit.

Cute Cat Names for Every Colour

Black cat names

Good names for cats with a mostly black coat include the classics such as ‘Lucky’, ‘Jess’ or ‘Sooty’, but if you’re looking for something a little different try:

• Jet - This cat name works great if your cat has a jet black coloured coat.
• Aurora - Named after a bright star in the sky, this kitten name has a hint of irony for black cats.
• Darth - A Star Wars reference, Darth would suit a boy black cat.
• Onyx - Like the dark, shiny gemstone, Onyx has magical connotations for your feline friend.
• Galaxy - This is another mystic name that would work for any black cat.
• Shadow - For more mysterious cats, Shadow is a classic name for black cats.
• Smokey - An ideal cat name for both grey and black cats.
• Cinder - Similar to Smokey, this is a good black cat name.
• Binx - A special reference to the black cat in Hocus Pocus.
• Cole - Again, sounds like coal, but works well as a kitten name too.

Some you may recognise a few famous felines from cartoons, but look for inspiration in films, space, precious stones and seasons to give your furry friend the perfect kitten name.

White cat names

If your pet is all or mostly white, and you’d like to pick a cat name which is perfect for your prince or princess, you could opt for:

• Snowy - A little on the nose for a white cat, there’s no harm in embracing that.
• Smudge - If your cat has a pointed colour coat, Smudge could be a great way to reference that.
• Puff - This cute cat name would suit particularly cats with long-haired coats.
• Pearl - A regal name for a majestic white cat, especially those with a little attitude.
• Casper - Like the ghost, this cat name is both friendly and a playful reference.
• Marshmallow - A cute cat name for any cat with a fluffy white coat.
• Ivory - This also sounds quite regal and works well for cats with an elegant charm.
• Quartz - A little more unique, this luxurious cat name is great for strong and bold cats.
• Olaf - An adorable kitten name that is a funny reference to the movie Frozen.
• Frosty - Again, the perfect cat name for a pure white-coloured cat.

Ginger Cat Names

Ginger cats can be both warm and fiery, so it’s only fair to give them a name that matches their personality. With their bright coat, there are many cute cat names that would suit a ginger cat. Here are some ideas:

• Ginger - Although a little obvious, Ginger is a great name for your ginger cat.
• Sunny - Your ginger cat shines bright like the sun, making Sunny the perfect name.
• Rusty - Great for cats that are a little rough around the edges with a cheeky side.
• Amber - If your cat is quite regal in its personality, Amber is a well-suited name.
• Mango - A cute cat name for cats of different breeds, especially playful ones.
• Tangerine - Another funny kitten name for playful, ginger felines.
• Honey - Loving and affectionate cats could be called Honey for being so sweet.
• Tigger - This is another playful name, like the character from Winnie the Pooh.
• Maple - A cute cat name for cats that are sweet in nature.
• Pumpkin - This nickname works well as an endearing cat name for a ginger cat.

Unique Cat Names Inspired by Themes

Nature inspired cat names

From herbs and spices to trees and flowers, the natural world offers plenty of beautiful names for your cute little kitten to inspire adventure and discovery:

• Sorrel - Like the reddish-brown herb, this name is warm just like affectionate cats.
• Violet - Inspired by the delicate purple flower, this is a sweet and elegant cat name.
• Posie - A bright bouquet of blooming flowers for cats with cheerful energy.
• River - Since rivers are calm but strong, this cat name would suit intelligent cats.
• Fern - If your cat is on the quieter side, this gentle kitten name could work well.
• Willow - Again, a wise name that could work for a senior cat.
• Sky / Skyla - A light name for free-spirited cats that enjoy the open skies.
• Wren - Like the little songbird, this name would suit petite cats that like to meow.
• Lily - A girl cat name for beautiful breeds.
• Bear - If your cat is a loyal companion, you could call them Bear.

Food inspired cat names

If your cat has unusual colouring or markings, why not take their name inspiration from that? You could also choose your favourite treat (which is almost as sweet as them):

• Muffin - The smell of muffins is comforting, just like your cuddly cat.
• Gingersnap - For ginger cats, this could be a spicy-sweet name.
• Nugget - A cute cat name for your little feline friend.
• Waffles - This one is quirky but works well if your cat is particularly unique.
• Peanut - A funny kitten name for smaller-sized breeds.
• Fudge - If your cat has a dark, glossy coat, the name Fudge could be suitable.
• Jellybean - Another nickname for your favourite feline.
• Cupcake - As sweet as a cupcake, this name is great for loving cats.
• Cookie - A classic cat name for a friendly cat of any breed.
• Sprinkles - Another fun cat name for lively pets.

Character inspired cat names

Maybe it’s your favourite character from a book, or from a memorable film, which conjures up adventure, nostalgia and - of course - cuteness. Here are a few suggestions:

• Wilbur - Like the pig from Charlotte’s Web, this name is great for loyal cats.
• Buttons - This cat name is cute as buttons, for cats that are cute as buttons!
• Lola - For sassy cats, this girl cat name has a bit of flair to it.
• Roo - Like the joey from Winnie the Pooh, this kitten name is both playful and sweet.
• Scout - A cute cat name for those that are curious and intelligent.
• Finnegan - A feline explorer, this name works for adventurous cats.
• Winnie - Another Winnie the Pooh reference for warm and loving cats.
• Aubrey - This is a classic literary name, great for majestic cats.
• Cordelia - A girl cat name for one that is graceful and elegant.
• Cressida - Another girl cat name that has a timeless charm.

Funny celebrity cat names

Celebrity puns and play-on-word names are not for the faint-hearted, but can work for cats with a lot of character (just be sure to make them inoffensive or controversial, as it could get a little tense in the vet’s waiting room). Some include:

• Purrlock Holmes - If your cat is both clever and curious, this is an obvious choice.
• Meowzart - For those noisy cats that can’t stop meowing.
• Catzilla - Some cats are mischievous, especially those with this name!
• Katniss Everclean - If your cat loves to groom itself, this would be a great reference.
• Purrscilla Queen of the Desert - A great kitten name for glamorous cats that love attention.
• Clawdia Pinkleman - Dramatic cats with an attitude should definitely be called this.
• Jennifur Aniston - If you’re a fan of the actress, this is a subtle reference and fun name.
• Catalie Portman / Cat Damon - Your cat is the feline star of the house, so why not call them as they are?
• Kitty Purry - A cute cat name for your bubbly and lively cat.
• Sir Whiskers (our personal favourite) - A classic cat name for your noble companion.

Music and Artsy Cat Names

It’s natural to want to choose a cute cat name that also captures your personal interests too. If you’re a creative person and enjoy music and arts, check out our list of unique cat names with a creative charm.

• Harmony - This name works well for soft and gentle cats that bring harmony to the home.
• Jazz - If you’re into jazz, why not reflect that in your cat’s name?
• Melody - For cats that tend to be quite vocal with their meows, this name would be suitable.
• Bowie - If your cat has a star quality, it would be hilarious to name them after David Bowie.
• Mozart - A great kitten name that artistic cat owners may want to use.
• Frida - Another artistic female cat name for art enthusiasts.
• Muse - Your cat is your companion - and may be even your artistic muse!
• Echo - A cute cat name that would suit cats of different breeds.
• Indie - If this is your style, then it could be your cat’s style too!
• Vinyl - An alternative name for those cats that are particularly unique.

More Unique Cat Names Inspired by Themes

If you’re looking for other unique cat names inspired by themes, check out some of these options:

• Nova
• Cosmo
• Orion
• Atlas
• Mystic
• Sahara
• Rune
• Wisp
• Odin
• Kairo

Cat Names – A Summary

Choosing cute cat names to suit your new kitten can be one of the most exciting decisions to make, but it’s important to remember that their name is here to stay and will forever be remembered within the family. Choosing your cat’s name is part of bonding with their owners, and the process should be fun and well thought-through. The best cat names are ones which all household members agree on, as well as ones which your cat can recognise. Try reading these suggestions out loud and see how your cat - and other family members - respond. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to try something more unusual, but above all, enjoy welcoming your new kitten to the fold!

Cat Names - FAQs

What should I name my cuddly cat?

If you have a cuddly cat, you’ll want to choose a name that reflects their affectionate, sweet and warm nature. Think of names like Coco, Cuddles, Marshmallow, Muffin, Snuggles and Teddy, which will capture your cat’s cuddly personality, so every time you call them, you’ll probably want a cuddle too!

What is a clingy cat called?

A clingy cat is often called a ‘Velcro cat’ since they stick to their owner like Velcro. Cats that are overly affectionate, crave constant attention and want to be near you all the time can be overbearing. It could also signal separation anxiety, so you’ll need to manage this appropriately.

What are playful cat names?

Playful cat names are those that sound fun to call out, showing plenty of energy and personality. Names like Bubbles, Dash, Milo, Tigger and Whiskers are perfect for those lively kittens. If your cat loves to jump and run around, it’s best to call them as they are!