How to Name Your Cat: Picking the Perfect Name For Your New Kitten

Adopting a new kitten is such an exciting and rewarding time in life, and there are so many great things to look forward to, especially in the beginning. On top of bringing your kitten home, you get to pick out all their supplies like fluffy blankets, soft beds, a tiny collar, and, most importantly, pick out a name!

Once your mind starts rolling with ideas, it can soon become a little overwhelming; after all, there are infinite names to choose from. However, you want your cat's name to be unique and perhaps meaningful, and that's what we are here to help you do. In this article, we’ll discuss tips to help you land the perfect name for your new kitten.

How to Name Your New Kitten

Your new kitten doesn't need a name right away, so take your time and try to enjoy the process. Spend time getting to know your new pet and one day, a name will drop into your mind, and you will know it's the one! It is like a special gift or sixth sense we receive when adopting a new kitten, and many cat owners can relate to the feeling.

However, that doesn't mean you should ignore all the possibilities. You can still have fun choosing your cat's name until it clicks. Here are a few easy tips to generate ideas.

1. Don’t Rush

Consider all the factors that can contribute to your kitten's name, like their personality or appearance. Take time to decide what you want your kitten's name to be inspired by. If you're patient with the process, you will be sure to pick the right one.

2. Get to Know Your Kitten’s Personality

Take time to bond with your kitten and watch them interact with the world. If your kitten shows traits of being aloof and shy, you may want a sweet and gentle name such as “Blush” or “Bambi,” but if your kitten is full of energy, they may be suited to a name like “Rascal” or “Bizzy.”

3. Find Inspiration in Your Kitten’s Appearance

Your kitten's appearance and breed can be the inspiration for the name. Your kitten may be fluffy, hairless, large, small, black, white, orange, or tortoiseshell patterned.

A black cat, for instance, has been associated with witches, and you can call them something like "Salem," whereas a fluffy white ragdoll could use a name like “Cloud” or "Cotton.” A title like “Pumpkin” or “Gingy” is ideal for a ginger cat, and a hairless cat could be called “Dobby.”

4. Choose Something Your Kitten Can Grow Into

Consider the longevity of your kitten's name. Some names seem perfect for a tiny kitten but may seem strange when your cat grows up. Naming your cat “Nermal” after Garfield’s little nemesis may seem fitting for your gray kitten, but when they weigh 17 pounds, will the name seem relevant? Imagine your kitty as a full-grown cat, and make a list of names your cat can grow into.

5. Consider a Human Name

A human name can be very suitable for a cat, and if there are some you love, consider using one of them. It can be a famous actor, a family member who has passed, or someone you admire.

6. Choose a Name That’s Easy to Say- Keep It Short and Sweet

Keep it simple, short, and sweet. A complicated name that is hard to pronounce will end up being shortened as a nickname. You will call your kitten’s name often, and after a short time, a name like” Bartholomew” or “Augustine” may get a little old.

7. Get Your Family and Friends Involved

Get your favorite people involved to provide ideas. It can be great fun throwing names around with your friends. All your ideas compiled together may inspire something unique, or a friend may shout out a great name you know is perfect the minute you hear it.

8. Consider Other Names in Your Home

When picking a name for your kitten, try not to let it sound like the name of anyone else who lives in the household or any other pets. For example, "Chad" may sound too much like “Dad,” and "Bella" is too similar to "Stella.” It could get confusing, especially if you choose a name like "Snow," which sounds too close to “No!”

9. Let Your Interests Inspire You

Consider famous figures that have impacted your life or your favorite childhood actor or actress. If you love reading, consider your favorite authors, or if you love music, consider your favorite songwriters and musicians.

Favorite TV show characters have also become popular choices for names. If you love gardening, consider a name like “Daisy,” or if you enjoy baking, you could choose a name like “Cookie” or “Muffin.” If you like learning new languages, you can use a name in French or Latin. The possibilities are almost endless!

Cat Name Ideas

If you need further inspiration, have a look at our top male and female cat names:

Final Thoughts

Who would have thought there was so much to consider when choosing a name for a new kitten? Well, there is, but it makes it much more fun. There are so many great names and ways to get inspired, but at the end of the day, try not to rush or overthink the name. Most of the time, a name chooses you, and you will know when you hear it. Good luck, and have fun!

Featured Image Credit: Nils Jacobi, Shutterstock