We all love our cats and giving them a name that you love is important. With over 100 million cats that have names, and new ones needing names every day, how can you find the perfect name for your furry feline friend?
Let's start with the most popular names given to cats. They're popular for a reason, right? These are names that have been around for a while and have withstood the test of time.
Tips for Choosing a Name
Choosing a name for a pet can cause a lot of anxiety for some people. It's a name you'll be calling them every day, it's the name you'll have to tell the vet, and it's the name you'll plaster all over social media every time you post a cute photo.
There are a few tips for selecting the right name before we give you some examples.
The first thing you should know is it's important to get to know the cat first. Spend some time observing their behavior, personality, and appearance. This will give you some clues as to what kind of name they would respond best to.
Another tip is to avoid names that are similar to the names of family or friends who will come to the house, or names of other pets. This might be confusing if you give your cat the same name as your sister and say things like "Karen, come here!" and then your sister comes running.
You also want to make sure the name you choose is not too long or complicated. A name like "Sir Reginald Fluffybottom" might be cute, but it's not going to be easy to call out when your cat is hiding under the bed.
And finally, choose a name that you feel comfortable saying out loud. If you're not comfortable with the name, maybe it's best to leave it as one of the many nicknames you'll end up giving your cat anyway.
Popular Cat Names for Girls
If you don't know too much about the cat except that it's a female, but you're starting to think of names already, why not start with one of the popular names for female cats? These names are great because they'll suit just about any cat.
Bella: This is a pretty name for a pretty kitty. Bella means beautiful in Italian which is the perfect way to start this list. This name doesn't need to be given to a cat of any specific color, size, or personality.
Luna: Luna is a very popular name for cats, and it's easy to see why. Luna comes from the French word "_lune_" which means moon. This name is great for any cat but is perfect for a black cat.
Nala: This name was popularized by The Lion King, but it's also a Hebrew word meaning sweet or dear. It's cute and short and perfect for the small lioness that you bring home.
Popular Cat Names for Boys
Choosing a popular name for your boy cat is a great way to start. This list of names has some of the most popular names for boy cats, and they're perfect for any kitten.
Max: Max is a short and simple name that is perfect for just about any cat. It's a strong name for a strong cat. This name has been around for a while and is still one of the most popular names for cats.
Charles: Charles is a regal name for a cat. It's perfect for a large and in-charge kind of kitty. This name has been around since the 1800s, making it a classic choice.
Oliver: Oliver is another name that is perfect for a boy cat. The name is also given to the sweetest stray kitty from the animated movie "Oliver and Company".
Cat Names Inspired by American Culture
What better way to show off your love of American culture than by naming your cat after one of its most iconic figures?
Chevy: A shorter, more cat-friendly version of the big brand Chevrolet. This brand was born and built in the US back in 1911 and is still one of the leading car brands today. This name does double duty, also representing the American actor, comedian, and writer Chevy Chase. He took the leading role in National Lampoon movies, a staple in an American household.
Liberty: Liberty is the perfect name for any cat; it's one of the core values in the US. Things like "liberty and justice for all," and, "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," are what the US was built on. And what cat doesn't deserve happiness and justice?
Rosie: How cute would a little kitty be with the name Rosie? What if you added a red bandana with white polka dots? You'd have the feline version of Rosie the Riveter who made an appearance on the famous "We Can Do It!" poster.
Cat Names Inspired by American History
American history is full of fascinating people, places, and events. It's no wonder that there are so many great cat names inspired by American history.
George: This name is perfect for any male cat, but it has particular significance in US history. It was the first name of one of the most influential presidents in US history, George Washington. He was our nation's first president and is known as the "Father of Our Country." He was also one of the key figures in leading the US to independence.
Betsy: Elizabeth "Betsy" Ross was the woman credited for making the very first American flag. George Washington brought her an idea, and she reworked part of the design to make it easier to sew, and then created the flag with the traditional red and white stripes that we know today, but the stars were in a circle in the top left-hand side.
Whiskey: Back in 1794, Pennsylvania was refusing to pay a liquor tax so George Washington intervened by sending troops to stop the Whiskey Rebellion. Not only is this a great historical name, but it also nods to military service, both from the troops that were sent to cease the rebellion, but Whiskey is the word used in the military alphabet.
Cat Names Inspired by American Celebrities
There are many, many American celebrities that you can name a cat after. This list is just a few of the most celebrities that cats are named after.
Marilyn: Depending on your interests, you may have thought of Marilyn Monroe or Marilyn Manson. The fun part of this name is you can leave it up to your friends to decide which of the Marilyns your cat is named after. This is a great name if your cat is quiet and sweet, or a crazy demon, or if they go back and forth between the two personalities at the drop of a hat.
Ferrell: This is a funny name for a cat. Will Ferrell is an amazing comedian, but naming a cat Ferrell makes the cat sound like they haven't been domesticated. This is a great name for a lazy, well-behaved cat with plenty of personality.
Sylvester: Sylvester Stallone is an American actor, director, and producer. He's most famous for his work in Rocky and Rambo. He's a bit of an action star, which is why this name is perfect for a feisty feline friend. There's also a pretty famous cat named Sylvester that appeared in several Looney Tunes cartoons.
Audrey: This name is perfect for a regal, ladylike cat. Audrey Hepburn was an American actress and humanitarian. She was known for her beauty and style, as well as her work in films like Breakfast at Tiffany's, Roman Holiday, and My Fair Lady.
Conclusion
So there you have it – the most popular cat names in America. These monikers are inspired by all things Americana, from history and culture to celebrities and everyday people. If you’re looking for a name that will perfectly reflect your patriotic feline, any of these should do the trick!