The Ultimate Cat Naming Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Name for Your Feline Friend

Naming your cat is one of the most important parts of becoming a cat parent. A cat’s name isn’t just a label; it reflects their personality and yours. It is a marker of the special bond you share. In this guide, I want to let you know how I approach naming cats. I’ve had to name a lot of cats over the years—sometimes my own, sometimes ones I was fostering. I’ve put together some notes on my thought process as well as some specific name suggestions based on different breeds. 

How to Name Your Cat 

I think selecting a name that fits your cat’s personality and appearance can enhance your bond with them. This is why it’s so important to pick the right name; otherwise, you might as well just give them a number. 

When I welcome a new cat into my home, I don’t name them right away. I spend a few days observing its behaviour, how it interacts with me, how it interacts with other cats, whether it likes indoors or outdoors, how interested it is in food and toys, and whether it is confident or shy. These factors, along with its appearance and its sex, determine the name I will choose for it. 

Here are some good all-round tips to help you brainstorm and select the right name for your cat: 

1. Observe Your Cat 
Spend time with your new cat and get to know their personality and behaviour. 

2. Consider Appearance 
Your cat’s appearance can give you a pointer for a good name. For example, “Shadow” for a black cat or “Snowball” for a white one. 

3. Think About Breed 
Some names suit certain breeds better than others. Below in this article, I give some suggestions for Ragdolls, Bengals, and Tabbies. 

4. Keep it Simple 
If you choose a simple, one- or two-syllable name, your cat is more likely to be able to recognise it. 

5. Test It Out 
Try calling your cat by a name that you like and see if it responds. 

Can You Change Your Cat’s Name? 
Yes, you can change your cat’s name. I sometimes adopt cats and don’t like the names they have, so I choose a better name. I once adopted a cat called “Mittens,” but she had such wonderful silver fur that I thought “Moonlight” was a better name for her. 

While some cats recognise their name, they recognise it as a sound that means you are giving them attention; they don’t have a sense of it as “their name.” As such, they can quickly learn to respond to a different name. 

When you change your cat’s name, it’s a good idea to positively reinforce that change by giving them treats when they respond to it. If your cat has been microchipped before you adopted it, you may want to update the name at the same time as you update the contact details on the microchip. 

Now, let’s look at some specific cat name ideas for different breeds. 

Ragdoll Cat Names

Ragdoll cats are known for their striking blue eyes and friendly, affectionate behaviour. Here are some names that I think would suit a Ragdoll cat: 

• Angel: This name reflects their pleasant disposition and beautiful appearance. 

• Blue: A reference to their striking blue eyes. 

• Marble: This name is inspired by the marbled patterns on their fur. 

• Cuddles: I’ve noticed that ragdolls are very cuddly, often preferring to sit on my chest rather than my lap. 

Bengal Cat Names 

Bengal cats are very playful, and they have an exotic appearance, with a coat that resembles a leopard. Here are some names that highlight these attributes: 

• Leo: This is short for leopard, to reflect their leopard-like coat. 

• Jungle: This refers to their wildcat-like appearance. 

• Cleo: This is inspired by Cleopatra, as they have a regal and exotic appearance. 

Cat Names for a Tabby

Tabby cats are known for their distinctive striped, swirled patterns and their “classic” cat appearance. Here are some names for Tabby cats that celebrate that classic charm: 

• Stripe: A simple name that describes their distinctive fur pattern. 

• Marmalade: This is a perfect name for Tabbies, which have some orange in their fur. 

• Patches: If your Tabby has a mix of colours, “Patches” makes a great name. 

• Whiskers: Tabbies’ white whiskers can be very noticeable against their dark patterned fur. This is also a ‘classic’ name. 

Cat Names in Pairs

If you are adopting two cats at once, it can be nice to give them matching names. Whether they are siblings or just companions, matching names can be delightful. 

• Salt & Pepper: This is an ideal set of names for black and white pairs. 

• Tom & Jerry: This is a great set of names for playful pairs who like to chase or scrap with each other. 

• Bonnie & Clyde: A great set of names for cats with a wild side. 

• Sansa & Arya: A great set of names for cats, which are sisters. 

Brown Cat Names

Brown cats have warm, dark coats, which can inspire a lot of great name options;  

• Cinnamon: This name reflects their warm-coloured coat. 

• Mocha: Any coffee-related name is perfect for a brown cat. 

• Hazel: This is a great name for light brown-coloured cats. 

• Bear: A great name for larger brown cats. 

French Cat Names 

A French name immediately evokes sophistication and elegance. I have a cat named Colette for this very reason. 

• Chloe: A classic French name that means “blooming.” 

• Bijou: This name means “jewel,” which makes it perfect for a precious little cat. 

• Amelie: A great name for a graceful and elegant cat. 

• Pierre: A classic French name that is perfect for a male cat. 

Final Thoughts: How To Pick The Right Name For Your Cat

Choosing the right name for your cat will strengthen your bond and can enhance how you and others perceive your cat’s personality. 

Take your time to find a name that resonates with their appearance, behaviour, sex, and breed. Whether you are inspired by their personality or by a favourite character that they remind you of, the right name will make the connection between you and your feline friend even more special.