600+ Kitten Names for Every Cat Personality, Color, and Breed

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Kitten Names

Ever stared at your new ball of fluff and drawn a complete blank on what to call them? You’re not alone!

Naming your kitten is one of the first and most important bonding moments you’ll share. It’s also something you’ll be saying multiple times a day for years to come (especially when they’re knocking things off your shelves at 3 AM).

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about finding the perfect name for your feline friend, from popular trends to unique inspirations that’ll make your kitty stand out at the vet’s office.

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Kitten Names

These classic kitten names have stood the test of time for good reason – they’re adorable, easy to pronounce, and perfectly capture the essence of cat companionship.

  • Luna – Meaning “moon” in Latin, perfect for nighttime adventurers
  • Oliver – From the olive tree, symbolizing peace and friendship
  • Milo – A Germanic name meaning “merciful,” popular for playful kittens
  • Bella – Italian for “beautiful,” ideal for your gorgeous feline
  • Leo – Latin for “lion,” perfect for your tiny house lion
  • Coco – Derived from cocoa, sweet and simple
  • Charlie – A classic name meaning “free man,” for independent cats
  • Lily – Named after the elegant flower
  • Simba – Swahili for “lion,” made famous by The Lion King
  • Nala – Another Lion King inspiration, meaning “gift” in various African languages
  • Oscar – Meaning “divine strength,” for those mighty little hunters
  • Lucy – Derived from Latin meaning “light,” for bright-eyed kittens
  • Max – Short for Maximilian, meaning “greatest”
  • Sophie – Greek for “wisdom,” for your clever kitty
  • Jasper – Persian origin meaning “treasurer,” for precious companions
  • Ruby – Named after the precious gemstone
  • Toby – Hebrew origin meaning “God is good”
  • Zoe – Greek for “life,” full of energy and spirit
  • Felix – Latin for “happy” or “lucky” – a perfect fit for many cats!
  • Daisy – Named after the cheerful flower

For even more simple but charming options, check out these cute cat usernames that can double as great kitten names.

Cutest Kitten Names

Looking for names that’ll make everyone go “aww”? These ultra-cute options are as adorable as your new kitten.

  • Muffin – Sweet and small, just like a tasty pastry
  • Peanut – Perfect for tiny kittens who are small as a legume
  • Button – Cute as a button and just as small
  • Cuddles – For the affectionate kitten who loves snuggle time
  • Fluff – Simple but perfect for extra fluffy kittens
  • Bubbles – Playful and light, like your bouncy new friend
  • Wiggles – For the kitten who can’t sit still
  • Tinker – Meaning “to repair,” for curious kittens who mess with everything
  • Marshmallow – Soft, sweet, and usually white or light-colored
  • Snickers – Named after the candy bar, but also for kittens who make funny sounds
  • Poppy – Named after the bright, cheerful flower
  • Boo – Short, sweet, and slightly spooky
  • Cupcake – Sweet and small, a perfect tiny treat name
  • Mochi – After the soft, squishy Japanese dessert
  • Sprinkle – Small, colorful, and adds joy wherever they go
  • Twinkle – For kittens with sparkling, bright eyes
  • Jellybean – Small, colorful, and sweet
  • Cookie – Sweet and sometimes speckled like a cookie
  • Pixie – For magical, mischievous little felines
  • Pebbles – Small and often gray, like tiny stones

If your kitten is especially tiny, you might want to browse these small boat names which surprisingly make adorable tiny cat names too!

Good Kitten Names

These reliable, classic names work well for any kitten and will age gracefully as they grow.

  • Sam – Short for Samantha or Samuel, meaning “God has heard”
  • Jack – Derived from John, meaning “God is gracious”
  • Chloe – Greek origin meaning “blooming” or “fertility”
  • Smokey – Perfect for gray kittens, referencing their smoky coloration
  • Tiger – For striped tabbies who resemble their wild cousins
  • Misty – Ethereal and perfect for gray or blue kittens
  • Ginger – Ideal for orange or red kittens, named after the spice
  • Shadow – For dark-colored cats who follow you everywhere
  • Rocky – Strong and solid, good for determined kittens
  • Pepper – Spicy and often black-speckled, like the seasoning
  • Scout – For the curious explorer who investigates everything
  • Mia – Meaning “mine” in Italian, because they’ll own your heart
  • Buddy – The perfect companion name for your new friend
  • Sammy – Diminutive of Sam, friendly and approachable
  • Grace – Elegant and poised, for the sophisticated kitten
  • Chester – Old English for “fortress” or “camp,” solid and dependable
  • Lola – Spanish origin meaning “sorrows,” though most Lolas are quite happy!
  • Rusty – Perfect for reddish-orange kittens
  • Midnight – For black kittens, especially night owls
  • Sunny – Bright and cheerful, bringing light to your home

For more timeless options that never go out of style, you might find inspiration in these good team names that can be adapted for a single cat.

Cute Kitten Names

These names lean into the cuteness factor that all kittens naturally possess!

  • Whiskers – Celebrating those adorable facial features all kittens have
  • Boots – Perfect for kittens with different colored paws
  • Smudge – Ideal for kittens with a smudge of color on their face
  • Socks – Like Boots, great for kittens with white paws
  • Pumpkin – Sweet and round, often used for orange cats
  • Ziggy – Playful and zippy, for energetic kittens
  • Mittens – Those paws look just like tiny mittens!
  • Teddy – Cuddly and soft like a teddy bear
  • Piper – Meaning “pipe player,” for vocal kittens
  • Penny – Small and potentially copper-colored
  • Cleo – Short for Cleopatra, meaning “glory”
  • Cinnamon – Spicy and sweet, for reddish-brown kittens
  • Popcorn – For kittens who bounce around like popping corn
  • Noodle – Long, skinny, and flexible
  • Pickles – Just quirky enough to be adorable
  • Tater Tot – Small, round, and irresistible
  • Gizmo – After the cute character from Gremlins
  • Zigzag – For kittens who never run in straight lines
  • Pip – Short, sweet and meaning “lover of horses” – ironically perfect for cats
  • Bean – Small and often referencing their tiny toe beans!

If you’re specifically looking for the cutest options for a white kitten, check out these white cat names for more inspiring ideas.

Female Kitten Names

These names celebrate the feminine feline in your life with beautiful, elegant options.

  • Athena – Greek goddess of wisdom, perfect for clever female kittens
  • Willow – A graceful tree with flowing branches
  • Zoe – Greek for “life,” full of feminine energy
  • Stella – Latin for “star,” bright and beautiful
  • Chloe – Greek meaning “blooming,” youthful and vibrant
  • Callie – Often short for Calico, but also means “beautiful” in Greek
  • Lulu – Arabic origin meaning “pearl,” precious and lustrous
  • Fiona – Gaelic origin meaning “fair,” elegant and ladylike
  • Pixie – A mischievous fairy, petite and magical
  • Ellie – Short for Eleanor, meaning “bright, shining one”
  • Lola – Spanish diminutive of Dolores, sweet and spunky
  • Nova – Latin for “new,” representing a bright star
  • Jade – Named after the precious green stone
  • Roxy – Persian origin meaning “dawn” or “bright”
  • Hazel – For the nut-brown color, often referring to eye color
  • Phoebe – Greek for “bright” or “pure”
  • Ginger – Perfect for orange female kittens
  • Zelda – Germanic origin meaning “gray fighting maid”
  • Rosie – After the beautiful flower, sweet and feminine
  • Sasha – Russian diminutive of Alexandra, meaning “defender”

Looking for more feminine-leaning names? These flower names for girls can be beautifully adapted for female kittens too.

Male Kitten Names

Strong, handsome names perfect for your little boy kitten.

  • Simba – Swahili for “lion,” the ultimate male cat name
  • Oscar – Germanic origin meaning “divine spear” or “champion warrior”
  • Jasper – Persian origin meaning “treasurer,” a strong, solid name
  • Felix – Latin for “happy” or “lucky,” classically masculine
  • Zeus – King of the Greek gods, powerful and commanding
  • Orion – The hunter constellation, strong and starry
  • Titan – From Greek mythology, meaning immense and powerful
  • Loki – Norse god of mischief, perfect for trouble-making males
  • Duke – A nobleman rank, regal and distinguished
  • Romeo – Italian origin, the famous Shakespearean lover
  • Diesel – Strong and powerful, with mechanical undertones
  • Bruno – Germanic origin meaning “brown,” strong and reliable
  • Maximus – Latin for “greatest,” powerful and commanding
  • Thor – Norse god of thunder, mighty and strong
  • Hunter – For the natural predator instincts all cats possess
  • Winston – English origin meaning “stone of joy,” distinguished
  • Apollo – Greek god of music and sun, bright and creative
  • Hank – Germanic origin meaning “estate ruler,” straightforward and strong
  • Bandit – For the little thief who steals your heart
  • George – Greek origin meaning “farmer,” classic and dignified

For more masculine name options with a nature twist, these strong boy names can inspire great male kitten names too.

Unique Kitten Names

Stand out from the crowd with these distinctive, original kitten names.

  • Zephyr – The west wind in Greek mythology, unusual and flowing
  • Pixel – A digital dot, modern and unique
  • Nimbus – Latin for “cloud,” ethereal and distinctive
  • Quasar – An astronomical object, bright and cosmic
  • Tofu – Soft and white, an unexpected food name
  • Jinx – Bringing luck (though sometimes bad!), mysterious
  • Pippin – From Lord of the Rings, curious and adventurous
  • Calypso – Greek sea nymph, rhythmic and unusual
  • Figment – A creation of imagination, whimsical
  • Onyx – A black gemstone, powerful and sleek
  • Atlas – The Titan who held up the sky, strong and unique
  • Vesper – Latin for “evening,” mysterious and elegant
  • Cosmo – Greek for “order” or “universe,” spacey and distinctive
  • Sable – A dark brown color, luxurious and uncommon
  • Zenith – The highest point, reaching for the stars
  • Echo – Greek nymph who could only repeat others, haunting
  • Rune – Ancient Germanic lettering, mystical and rare
  • Tempest – A violent storm, dramatic and powerful
  • Fable – A legendary story, mythical and meaningful
  • Koi – The Japanese fish, colorful and flowing

If you’re looking for truly distinctive names, you might find inspiration in these unique usernames that make surprisingly good cat names too.

Black Kitten Names

Perfect names for your midnight-colored companion that celebrate their beautiful dark coat.

  • Shadow – Following you like your own shadow, sleek and dark
  • Onyx – The black gemstone, glossy and precious
  • Midnight – The darkest hour, mysterious and beautiful
  • Raven – The black bird, intelligent and glossy
  • Coal – Dark as coal mines, rich and earthy
  • Licorice – The black candy, sweet and twisty
  • Panther – The wild black cat, powerful and sleek
  • Vader – After Darth Vader, commanding and dark
  • Jet – The black gemstone, polished and beautiful
  • Ebony – Dark black wood, luxurious and rich
  • Salem – After the black cat from Sabrina, magical
  • Ash – The remains of fire, gray-black and soft
  • Pepper – The black spice, small but mighty
  • Bagheera – The black panther from The Jungle Book
  • Storm – Dark like storm clouds, powerful
  • Magic – Mysterious and enchanting like magic itself
  • Obsidian – Volcanic glass, shiny and black
  • Jett – Variation of Jet, sleek and stylish
  • Crowley – Meaning “from the crow’s meadow,” dark and mysterious
  • Espresso – The dark coffee, rich and energizing

For more specific options for your black kitten, explore these black cat names for additional inspiration.

Tabby Cat Names for Orange Kittens

These names celebrate the fiery, warm coloration of orange tabbies.

  • Rusty – Like rust, orange-red and natural
  • Marmalade – The orange spread, sweet and vibrant
  • Ginger – The classic redhead name, spicy and warm
  • Pumpkin – Orange and round, seasonally perfect
  • Cheddar – The orange cheese, sharp and delicious
  • Tigger – After the bouncy tiger from Winnie the Pooh
  • Garfield – The famous orange comic strip cat
  • Flame – Fiery and bright, like their coat
  • Amber – The golden-orange gemstone, warm and translucent
  • Apricot – The orange fruit, sweet and sunny
  • Copper – The orange-brown metal, shiny and warm
  • Tangerine – The bright orange citrus, zesty
  • Honey – Golden and sweet, like their personality
  • Peaches – The fuzzy orange fruit, sweet and soft
  • Sunny – Bright and warm like sunshine
  • Blaze – Fiery and bold, for the striking orange coat
  • Mango – The tropical orange fruit, exotic
  • Marigold – The bright orange flower, cheerful
  • Toffee – The caramel-colored sweet, rich and warm
  • Phoenix – The mythical fire bird, rising from ashes

For more specific inspiration for your orange tabby, check out these orange cat names that perfectly complement their fiery coloration.

Best Names for White Kittens

These names highlight the pristine, snow-white beauty of your pale-coated kitten.

  • Snow – Pure white and cold like freshly fallen snow
  • Cloud – Fluffy and white, floating above
  • Pearl – The lustrous white gem, precious and rare
  • Ghost – Ethereal and pale, slightly spooky
  • Cotton – Soft and white like cotton balls
  • Frost – Cold and crystalline, wintery
  • Sugar – Sweet and white like refined sugar
  • Angel – Heavenly and pure, divine
  • Blizzard – A snow storm, wild and white
  • Lily – The white flower, elegant and pure
  • Coconut – White inside, tropical and sweet
  • Marshmallow – Soft, squishy and pure white
  • Ivory – The creamy white material, luxurious
  • Winter – The snow-covered season, crisp and clean
  • Daisy – The white and yellow flower, cheerful
  • Casper – The friendly ghost, pale and sweet
  • Vanilla – The white flavoring, smooth and sweet
  • Opal – The iridescent white gemstone, magical
  • Glacier – Massive ice formation, cold and magnificent
  • Powder – Soft and fine like powdered sugar

For a more comprehensive list, explore these white cat names specifically curated for pale-coated felines.

Cute Names for Black Kittens

These adorable names balance the darkness of your black kitten with their inherent cuteness.

  • Inky – Like black ink, flowing and artistic
  • Binx – After the black cat from Hocus Pocus, magical
  • Sooty – Like chimney soot, soft and smudgy
  • Boo – Small, dark, and slightly spooky
  • Olive – Dark like black olives, small and round
  • Luna – The moon against the black night sky
  • Pepper – Small, black, and spicy
  • Spooky – Hauntingly cute, perfect for black cats
  • Shadow – Your little shadow, following everywhere
  • Nyx – Greek goddess of night, mysterious and ancient
  • Cocoa – Dark like chocolate, sweet and rich
  • Poe – After Edgar Allan Poe, literary and dark
  • Jiji – After the black cat from Kiki’s Delivery Service
  • Stormy – Dark like storm clouds, wild and free
  • Berries – Like blackberries, small and sweet
  • Dottie – For a black cat with a tiny white dot
  • Smudge – Like a charcoal smudge, artistic
  • Sprinkles – Black like chocolate sprinkles
  • Toothless – After the black dragon from How to Train Your Dragon
  • Coal – Small chunk of coal, glossy and dark

For even more ideas that celebrate your black kitten’s darkness, check out these black cat names for a comprehensive selection.

Gray Kitten Names

Perfect names for silver, charcoal, and ash-colored kittens.

  • Ash – Like fire remains, soft gray and dusty
  • Smokey – Like smoke, ethereal and misty
  • Silver – Shiny and metallic, elegant and valuable
  • Dusty – Soft gray like dust motes, gentle
  • Misty – Like morning mist, ethereal and mysterious
  • Steel – Hard and metallic, strong gray
  • Storm – Gray like storm clouds, powerful
  • Shadow – The gray area between light and dark
  • Slate – The gray stone, solid and enduring
  • Earl – As in “Earl Grey” tea, sophisticated
  • Dove – The gray bird, peaceful and gentle
  • Pebble – Small gray stone, smooth and natural
  • Pewter – The gray metal, classic and timeless
  • Fog – Misty and mysterious, fading in and out
  • Mercury – The silvery liquid metal, flowing
  • Wisp – A small gray cloud or smoke tendril
  • Ghost – Pale gray and slightly supernatural
  • Sterling – High-quality silver, valuable
  • Cloudy – Gray like overcast skies, moody
  • Ashes – Soft, powdery remains, quiet and gentle

For more specific silver and gray themed names, browse these gray cat names for additional inspiration.

Names for Golden Kittens

These names celebrate the sunny, warm golden coloration of your kitten.

  • Goldie – Simply golden, bright and valuable
  • Honey – Sweet and golden, warm and sticky
  • Sunny – Bright as sunshine, cheerful
  • Amber – The golden fossilized resin, ancient and rich
  • Butterscotch – The golden candy, sweet and rich
  • Caramel – Golden-brown sweet, rich and flowing
  • Topaz – The golden gemstone, sparkling and bright
  • Marigold – The golden flower, vibrant and sunny
  • Nugget – A small piece of gold, precious
  • Midas – The king with the golden touch, mythical
  • Soleil – French for “sun,” bright and warm
  • Dandelion – The golden flower, wild and free
  • Mustard – The golden condiment, tangy
  • Ray – A ray of sunshine, bright and warm
  • Apollo – Greek sun god, radiant and powerful
  • Buttercup – The small yellow flower, cheerful
  • Saffron – The expensive golden spice, exotic
  • Aztec – Reminiscent of Aztec gold, rich and historical
  • Daffodil – The spring yellow flower, bright and cheerful
  • Sunrise – The golden morning light, promising

While there isn’t a specific gold cat names link in the provided list, you might find some crossover with these gold team names that could work well for a golden kitten.

Names for Brown Kittens

These earthy, rich names are perfect for chocolate, coffee, and nut-brown kittens.

  • Cocoa – Dark brown like chocolate, rich and sweet
  • Mocha – Coffee-brown, rich and energizing
  • Brownie – The chocolate dessert, sweet and rich
  • Hazel – Light brown like the nut, warm and natural
  • Chestnut – The rich brown nut, glossy and warm
  • Toffee – The caramel candy, sticky and sweet
  • Bear – Brown like many bears, strong and cuddly
  • Cinnamon – The brown spice, warm and spicy
  • Teddy – Like a teddy bear, brown and huggable
  • Acorn – The small brown nut, natural and woodland
  • Walnut – The rich brown nut, textured
  • Hickory – Brown wood, strong and durable
  • Penny – Like a copper penny, reddish-brown
  • Espresso – Dark brown coffee, rich and intense
  • Fudge – The chocolate confection, sweet and rich
  • Russet – Reddish-brown like the potato, earthy
  • Truffle – The chocolate candy or mushroom, rare and rich
  • Cedar – The reddish-brown wood, aromatic
  • Mahogany – The rich red-brown wood, luxurious
  • Umber – Natural brown earth pigment, artistic

For more specific brown-themed names, you might find inspiration in these brown cat names or even these brown team names.

Fur-Based Kitten Names

These names celebrate your kitten’s unique coat, regardless of color.

  • Velvet – Soft and luxurious like the fabric
  • Fluffy – For the extra-fluffy kittens with long fur
  • Silky – Smooth and glossy coated
  • Scruffy – For disheveled-looking kittens
  • Fuzzy – Soft and fuzzy fur, like peach fuzz
  • Cotton – Soft and fluffy like cotton balls
  • Satin – Smooth and glossy coated
  • Cashmere – Luxuriously soft, like the wool
  • Shaggy – Long, unruly fur, casual and fun
  • Plush – Like a plush toy, super soft
  • Downy – Soft like down feathers, gentle
  • Woolly – Thick and warm like wool
  • Suede – Soft and velvety like the leather
  • Mink – Luxurious and soft like the fur
  • Puff – Round and fluffy, cloud-like
  • Angora – After the long-haired rabbit, silky
  • Feather – Light and soft like a feather
  • Chinchilla – After the soft-furred animal
  • Dandelion – Soft and fluffy like the seed puff
  • Mohair – Fluffy and soft like the fabric

For more specialized names for extra-fluffy cats, check out these long-haired cat names for inspiration.

Names for Striped Kittens

Perfect for tabbies and other striped pattern kittens.

  • Tiger – The wild striped cat, powerful and bold
  • Ziggy – For zigzag stripes, playful and fun
  • Stripes – Simple but perfect for striped kittens
  • Bangle – After the Bengal tiger, exotic
  • Zebra – The black and white striped animal
  • Ripple – Like ripples in water, flowing stripes
  • Marble – Like marbled patterns, swirling
  • Tigger – After the bouncy striped character
  • Dash – Like dashed lines, quick and energetic
  • Streak – Lines like racing streaks, fast
  • Swirl – For swirling tabby patterns
  • Brindle – The tiger-stripe pattern, distinctive
  • Ringo – Meaning “apple” but sounds like “ring” for circular stripes
  • Circuit – Like circuit board lines, technical
  • Raja – Meaning “king” in Sanskrit, royal like a tiger
  • Stripe – Simple and literal, but effective
  • Tabby – The classic striped cat pattern
  • Rajah – Another variation of “king,” tiger-like
  • Camo – Like camouflage patterns, stealthy
  • Zorro – The masked hero who made the “Z” mark

If your kitten has distinctive tiger-like stripes, these animal team names might offer additional inspiration, especially the tiger-themed ones.

Cute Names for Hairless Kittens

These names celebrate the unique beauty of hairless cat breeds like the Sphynx.

  • Sphinx – After the Egyptian monument, mysterious and ancient
  • Yoda – The wrinkled Star Wars character, wise
  • Dobby – The house-elf from Harry Potter, loyal and sweet
  • Gollum – The bald Lord of the Rings character, precious
  • Alien – For their otherworldly appearance, exotic
  • Velvet – Ironically smooth, soft to touch despite no fur
  • Suede – Soft and smooth like the leather
  • Wrinkles – Celebrating their wrinkly skin, adorable
  • Peach – Soft and fuzzy like peach skin
  • Pharaoh – Egyptian ruler, regal and ancient
  • Goblin – The mythical creature, magical and unusual
  • Buddha – The spiritual figure, peaceful and wise
  • Nefertiti – Beautiful Egyptian queen, elegant
  • Pinky – For their pink skin, cute and simple
  • Tut – After King Tutankhamun, royal
  • Noodle – Long, smooth, and flexible
  • Imp – The mischievous mythical creature, playful
  • Cleopatra – Egyptian queen, beautiful and powerful
  • Gremlin – The cute-but-odd creature, mischievous
  • Ripley – After the Alien movie character, strong

For more specialized names for hairless cats, explore these hairless cat names for additional inspiration.

Adorable Kitten Names Based on Personality

These names reflect your kitten’s unique character traits and behaviors.

  • Dash – For the kitten who runs everywhere, speedy
  • Trouble – The mischief-maker who’s always up to something
  • Snuggles – The affectionate kitten who loves cuddles
  • Zippy – Always zipping around, energetic and fast
  • Shy – For the timid kitten who needs time to warm up
  • Boss – The in-charge kitten who rules the household
  • Cuddles – The affectionate snuggler, loving
  • Nosey – Always investigating everything, curious
  • Chatterbox – The vocal kitten who always has something to say
  • Sleepy – The kitten who’s always napping, relaxed
  • Scout – The explorer who investigates everything
  • Wiggles – Can’t sit still, always moving
  • Grumpy – The kitten with the permanent frown, humorously cranky
  • Sassy – Full of attitude and personality
  • Giggles – Brings joy and laughter, playful
  • Ninja – Stealthy and quick, appearing out of nowhere
  • Zen – Calm, peaceful, and balanced
  • Diva – Full of drama and demands, high maintenance
  • Pouncer – Always pouncing on toys or feet, playful
  • Nibbles – Gentle biter, playful but tender

For more personality-driven name ideas, check out these ninja team names which surprisingly work well for stealthy, agile kittens!

Names for Kittens With Wild Cat Personalities

For those kittens who think they’re tigers, lions, or panthers despite their tiny size.

  • Simba – The lion cub who becomes king, brave
  • Bagheera – The black panther from The Jungle Book, wise
  • Rajah – Sanskrit for “king,” royal and commanding
  • Aslan – The great lion from Narnia, noble and wise
  • Cheetah – The fastest wild cat, speedy
  • Jaguar – Powerful spotted wild cat, strong
  • Serval – The African wild cat, elegant and spotted
  • Puma – Also known as cougar or mountain lion, strong
  • Puma – Also known as cougar or mountain lion, strong
  • Lynx – Wild cat with tufted ears, keen-eyed and alert
  • Panther – Powerful and sleek black wild cat
  • Shere Khan – The tiger from The Jungle Book, fierce
  • Ocelot – The spotted wild cat, beautiful and rare
  • Tigris – Latin for tiger, ancient and powerful
  • Cougar – North American wild cat, strong and independent
  • Caracal – Desert wildcat with tufted ears, exotic
  • Leo – Latin for lion, regal and proud
  • Savannah – After the hybrid cat breed, wild but domestic
  • Bengal – After the hybrid cat breed, exotic and energetic
  • Bobcat – Wild cat with a short “bobbed” tail, resourceful

If your kitten truly has the heart of a big cat, you might find more inspiration in these animal team names that celebrate wild creatures.

Kitten Names for Laid-Back Personalities

Perfect for those chill, relaxed kittens who take life at their own pace.

  • Mellow – Relaxed and easy-going, peaceful
  • Zen – The state of calm awareness, balanced
  • Sleepy – Always ready for a nap, restful
  • Lotus – The peaceful floating flower, serene
  • Buddha – The enlightened one, peaceful and wise
  • Dreamer – Lost in their own world, thoughtful
  • Cloud – Floating peacefully, unbothered
  • Hammock – Relaxing and swaying gently
  • Snooze – Always ready to doze off, restful
  • Chill – Relaxed and cool, untroubled
  • Gentle – Soft and kind in manner, tender
  • Calm – Peaceful and unruffled, serene
  • Willow – The flexible tree that bends with the wind
  • Harmony – Balanced and in tune with everything
  • Serene – Peaceful and tranquil, untroubled
  • Cozy – Comfortable and content, homey
  • Peace – Quiet and undisturbed, tranquil
  • Sage – Wise and mellow, thoughtful
  • Lazy – Affectionately idle, energy-conserving
  • Siesta – The afternoon nap, restful

For a laid-back kitten who’s the perfect napping companion, you might find inspiration in these spiritual usernames that often evoke peace and tranquility.

Cat Names for Kittens With Mischievous Personalities

These names celebrate those kittens who can’t resist getting into trouble!

  • Rascal – Playfully mischievous, always testing boundaries
  • Bandit – The masked thief, stealing hearts and socks
  • Trouble – Always finding it or causing it, never far from mischief
  • Mischief – The embodiment of playful trouble, spirited
  • Loki – Norse god of mischief, tricky and clever
  • Imp – A small mischievous creature, playfully naughty
  • Trickster – Always playing tricks, clever and sneaky
  • Puck – Mischievous fairy from Shakespeare, magical troublemaker
  • Rogue – Independent and slightly rebellious, charming
  • Maverick – Non-conformist, does things their own way
  • Chaos – Creating disorder wherever they go, wild
  • Rebel – Breaking all the rules, independent
  • Gremlin – The troublemaking creature, especially at night
  • Menace – Adorably dangerous to curtains and ankles
  • Ninja – Stealthy and surprising, appearing out of nowhere
  • Houdini – After the escape artist, impossible to contain
  • Zigzag – Never going in a straight line, unpredictable
  • Ricochet – Bouncing off walls and furniture, energetic
  • Jester – The royal court fool, entertaining and silly
  • Pixie – Magical and mischievous fairy, spritely

For more names celebrating mischievous personalities, check out these edgy team names which work surprisingly well for trouble-making kittens.

Cute Themed Kitty Names

These adorable themed names group into categories that add extra charm.

  • Professor Whiskers – Academic theme, learned and dignified
  • Sir Purrsalot – Royal theme, knightly and noble
  • Captain Cuddles – Military theme, commanding and affectionate
  • Lady Fluffington – Aristocratic theme, refined and elegant
  • Princess Paws – Royal theme, regal and delicate
  • Doctor Meow – Medical theme, professional and caring
  • Detective Whiskers – Mystery theme, observant and clever
  • Duchess Softpaws – Royal theme, elegant and gentle
  • Agent Mittens – Spy theme, secretive and stealthy
  • Count Purrcula – Horror theme, dramatically spooky
  • Chef Biscuit – Culinary theme, skilled at making biscuits
  • Queen Floof – Royal theme, magnificent and commanding
  • Admiral Snuggles – Naval theme, commanding but cuddly
  • Sergeant Snugglesworth – Military theme, disciplined but loving
  • Madame Whiskerface – French theme, sophisticated
  • Sheriff Paws – Western theme, enforcing the household laws
  • Baron von Purrington – German nobility theme, distinguished
  • Major Muffin – Military theme, sweet but authoritative
  • General Fuzzywuzzy – Military theme, fluffy but commanding
  • Countess Clawdia – Royal theme, elegant but sharp-clawed

For more themed naming ideas, explore these detective team names which can be adapted for mystery-loving kittens.

Food Names for Male and Female Kittens

Deliciously cute food-inspired names for your hungry little kitten.

  • Mochi – Japanese rice cake dessert, soft and sweet
  • Biscuit – The baked good, warm and comforting
  • Pickle – Green, tangy, and slightly sour
  • Waffles – The breakfast food, sweet and grid-patterned
  • Noodle – Long, flexible, and universally loved
  • Pepper – The spice, small but impactful
  • Cookie – Sweet, often spotted treat
  • Muffin – Soft, round, and sweet
  • Ginger – The spicy root, warm and energizing
  • Cinnamon – The sweet spice, warm and aromatic
  • Olive – The Mediterranean fruit, small and distinctive
  • Taco – The Mexican food, folded and filled
  • Bean – Small, oval, nutritious (also references toe beans!)
  • Honey – Sweet and golden, warm and flowing
  • Nugget – Small chunk of goodness, compact
  • Pepper – Small but spicy, impactful
  • Cupcake – Sweet, frosted, and festive
  • Nacho – Crispy, cheesy, and fun
  • Cashew – The curved nut, smooth and creamy
  • Kiwi – The fuzzy fruit, small and sweet

If your kitten has a particularly healthy appetite, you might find more inspiration in these food usernames that make adorable kitten names.

Funny Kitten Names

These humorous names are sure to bring a smile to anyone who meets your kitten.

  • Sir Fluffington – Aristocratic title for a common housecat, ironic
  • Chairman Meow – Political pun on Chairman Mao, authoritative
  • Purr Diddy – Play on the rapper’s name, musical and amusing
  • Whisker Biscuit – Nonsensical but adorable combination
  • Lord Fluffybottom – Regal title for a fluffy backside, elegant but silly
  • Mister Meowgi – Play on Mr. Miyagi from Karate Kid, wise
  • Furdinand – Play on Ferdinand, regal and furry
  • Professor Purrington – Academic title for a purring expert
  • Sir Pounce-a-lot – Knightly title for a jumpy kitty
  • Lady Whiskerton – Aristocratic title focusing on whiskers
  • Kitty Purry – Play on singer Katy Perry, musical
  • Clawed Monet – Artistic pun on Claude Monet, creative
  • David Meowie – After singer David Bowie, musical and unique
  • Empress Fuzzybutt – Royal title for a fuzzy behind, regal but funny
  • The Great Catsby – Literary pun on The Great Gatsby, classic
  • Pawdrey Hepburn – Play on Audrey Hepburn, elegant but punny
  • Vincent van Gogh – Artistic name, hopefully keeps both ears!
  • Shakespurr – Literary pun on Shakespeare, dramatic
  • Genghis Cat – Historical pun on Genghis Khan, conquering
  • Neil Catstrong – Play on Neil Armstrong, adventurous

For more funny naming ideas, check out these funny team names which can easily be adapted for a kitten with a humorous personality.

Kitten Names That Play on Words

These clever, pun-filled names show off your wordplay skills.

  • Clawdia – Play on the name Claudia, highlighting cat claws
  • Furguson – Play on the surname Ferguson, furry version
  • Jennifur – Furry version of Jennifer, soft and feminine
  • Pawla – Play on the name Paula, referencing paws
  • Cindy Clawford – Play on model Cindy Crawford, glamorous
  • Catrick Swayze – Play on actor Patrick Swayze, smooth
  • Meowzart – Play on composer Mozart, musical
  • Purrcilla – Play on the name Priscilla, elegant but punny
  • Pawdrey Hepburn – Play on actress Audrey Hepburn, classic
  • Kitty Perry – Play on singer Katy Perry, musical
  • Leonardoh da Whiski – Play on Leonardo da Vinci, artistic
  • Catsanova – Play on Casanova, the great lover
  • Fuzz Aldrin – Play on Buzz Aldrin, space explorer
  • Cleocatra – Play on Cleopatra, regal and ancient
  • Furry Potter – Play on Harry Potter, magical
  • Attila the Fluff – Play on Attila the Hun, fierce but fluffy
  • Meowcolm X – Play on Malcolm X, historic leader
  • Catpernicus – Play on Copernicus, scientific
  • Puma Thurman – Play on Uma Thurman, cool and sleek
  • Tabbytha – Play on Tabitha, perfect for tabby cats

For more wordplay inspiration, explore these witty team names that could be adapted for a clever kitten.

Kitten Names From Pop Culture

These names celebrate beloved characters and icons from movies, TV, books, and more.

  • Luna – From Harry Potter, meaning “moon,” mysterious
  • Simba – The Lion King protagonist, brave and regal
  • Arya – Game of Thrones character, fierce and independent
  • Loki – Marvel’s trickster god, mischievous and clever
  • Khaleesi – Game of Thrones title meaning “queen,” powerful
  • Yoda – Star Wars Jedi master, wise and ancient
  • Zelda – Video game princess or 1920s icon, elegant
  • Thor – Marvel’s god of thunder, mighty and strong
  • Hermione – Harry Potter’s brilliant witch, intelligent
  • Pikachu – Pokémon character, electric and cute
  • Daenerys – Game of Thrones character, strong-willed
  • Gomez – From The Addams Family, darkly romantic
  • Elsa – Frozen ice queen, independent and magical
  • Chewie – Short for Chewbacca from Star Wars, loyal
  • Eleven – Stranger Things character, mysterious and powerful
  • Sherlock – The famous detective, intelligent and observant
  • Buffy – Vampire slayer, strong and determined
  • Sabrina – The teenage witch, magical and strong
  • Neville – Harry Potter character, underdog hero
  • Katniss – The Hunger Games protagonist, fierce survivor

For more pop culture inspiration, check out these Harry Potter team names or Star Wars team names that make great kitten names for fans.

Character Names for Kittens

These names evoke specific traits or characteristics, perfect for kittens with distinctive personalities.

  • Scout – The curious explorer, investigative
  • Hero – Brave and noble, saving the day
  • Sage – Wise and thoughtful, peaceful
  • Bandit – The lovable thief, mischievous
  • Rogue – Independent rule-breaker, charming
  • Grace – Elegant and poised, refined
  • Shadow – Mysterious follower, quiet
  • Dash – Quick and athletic, energetic
  • Hope – Bright and optimistic, uplifting
  • Maverick – Non-conformist, independent thinker
  • Faith – Loyal and believing, trustworthy
  • Rebel – Breaking all the rules, spirited
  • Piper – Musical and vocal, lyrical
  • Justice – Fair and balanced, principled
  • Liberty – Free and unrestrained, independent
  • Courage – Brave despite fear, bold
  • Destiny – Fated for greatness, meaningful
  • Chance – Lucky and random, fortunate
  • Spirit – Lively and full of energy, soulful
  • Wisdom – Thoughtful and insightful, knowledgeable

For names that truly capture character and personality, browse these powerful team names which can be adapted for kittens with strong personalities.

Cute Flower Names for Your Cat

These botanical names bring natural beauty and grace to your feline friend.

  • Lily – The elegant white flower, pure and graceful
  • Rose – The classic romantic flower, beautiful but thorny
  • Daisy – The cheerful white and yellow flower, innocent
  • Poppy – The bright red flower, bold and beautiful
  • Violet – The small purple flower, sweet and delicate
  • Jasmine – The fragrant white flower, exotic and sweet
  • Iris – The colorful garden flower, diverse and striking
  • Dahlia – The complex and layered flower, sophisticated
  • Marigold – The bright orange/yellow flower, vibrant
  • Zinnia – The colorful zinnia flower, bright and hardy
  • Ivy – The climbing vine, persistent and adaptable
  • Willow – The graceful weeping tree, elegant
  • Azalea – The bright flowering shrub, colorful and bold
  • Magnolia – The grand southern flower, stately
  • Clover – The lucky four-leaf plant, fortunate
  • Holly – The Christmas plant with red berries, festive
  • Tulip – The spring bulb flower, colorful and cheerful
  • Petunia – The trumpet-shaped garden flower, bright
  • Fern – The feathery green plant, delicate and ancient
  • Blossom – The flowering stage, new beginnings

For even more flower-inspired names, explore these flower names for girls or flower names for cats for additional botanical inspiration.

Why Naming Your Kitten Actually Matters

When I brought home my gray tabby, I spent nearly a week trying different names until I found one that just clicked. And there’s good reason to take your time with this decision!

Your kitten’s name becomes the foundation of your communication. It’s not just a label—it’s how you’ll call them for dinner, redirect unwanted behavior, or shower them with affection. A good name creates a genuine connection between you and your pet.

There are practical considerations too:

  • Training and recall: Cats do learn their names, even if they sometimes choose to ignore you
  • Vet visits: Clear, distinctive names help avoid mix-ups
  • Microchipping and registration: Your cat’s official identity in databases
  • Social introduction: How you’ll introduce your cat to friends and family

Plus, the name you choose often reflects your own personality and values. Whether you’re drawn to classic names like Max and Bella or something completely off-the-wall like Lord Fluffington III, your choice says something about you too!

How to Choose the Perfect Kitten Name

Finding the right name is all about balance—you want something that feels right for your specific cat while also being practical for everyday use.

Factors to Consider When Naming Your Kitten

Take a good look at your new friend. What stands out about them? Maybe it’s their striking orange coloring or perhaps their playful personality is already shining through.

Some helpful inspiration sources include:

  • Appearance: Color, markings, size, eye color
  • Personality: Playful, shy, mischievous, affectionate
  • Breed heritage: Names that honor your cat’s origins
  • Personal interests: Your favorite books, movies, foods, or hobbies

Tips for Picking a Memorable Name

  1. Keep it relatively short: One or two syllables are generally easier for cats to recognize
  2. Consider sounds: Cats respond well to names ending in “ee” sounds
  3. Test it out: Say it out loud in different tones (happy, stern, calling)
  4. Future-proof it: That cute baby name might feel less fitting for a dignified adult cat
  5. Make it distinctive: Different from other pets’ names and common household words

Naming Mistakes to Avoid

Trust me, you’ll want to avoid these common pitfalls:

  • Names that sound like commands: Skip names that sound like “no,” “stay,” or other instructions
  • Overly complicated names: If you can’t say it three times fast, it might be too much
  • Embarrassing names: Remember, you’ll be calling this out at the vet’s office!
  • Names you can’t commit to: If you’re not sure, keep testing until one feels right

Based on recent pet insurance registrations, microchip data, and community polls, these names are topping the charts this year:

  1. Luna
  2. Loki
  3. Leo
  4. Nala
  5. Coco
  6. Bella
  7. Charlie
  8. Milo
  9. Simba
  10. Lily
Female Names Male Names Unisex Names
Poppy Charlie Pumpkin
Bella Felix Smudge
Misty Finley Boo
Molly Buddy Bubbles
Daisy Ralph Fudge
Luna Oscar Fluffy
Lily Milo Shadow

Different countries have their own distinct naming trends for kittens:

Australia: Oscar, Max, Tiger, Sam, Misty, Simba, Coco

Japan: Momo (peach), Kuro (black), Hana (flower), Shiro (white)

UK: Oliver, Loki, Simba, Luna, Bella, Tilly, Poppy

If you’re looking for a name with more international flair, check out these Japanese cat names or these elegant British cat names for more inspiration.

Unique and Rare Kitten Names

Want something a bit more original? Here are some standout names that you won’t hear at every vet clinic:

Unique Names for Male Kittens

  • Atlas
  • Zephyr
  • Quasar
  • Onyx
  • Pixel
  • Nimbus
  • Cosmo
  • Juniper
  • Zeke
  • Ember

Unique Names for Female Kittens

  • Astrid
  • Calypso
  • Echo
  • Fable
  • Juno
  • Nebula
  • Sable
  • Vesper
  • Wren
  • Zinnia

Unique Unisex Names

  • Chai
  • Figment
  • Nova
  • Phoenix
  • Ripley
  • Sage
  • Tundra
  • Whisper
  • Ziggy
  • Comet

Looking for more ideas? Mythology, literature, and nature offer endless inspiration. For cats with a darker aesthetic, you might explore these gothic cat names for something truly distinctive.

Kitten Names by Personality and Appearance

Sometimes the best name comes from observing your kitten’s unique traits or looks:

Names for Playful Kittens

If your little one is bouncing off the walls and causing cheerful chaos:

  • Bounce
  • Rascal
  • Zippy
  • Trouble
  • Frolic
  • Hijinks
  • Rocket
  • Sprite

Names for Shy or Gentle Kittens

For the quieter, more contemplative feline:

  • Whisper
  • Shadow
  • Wisp
  • Dream
  • Gentle
  • Mist
  • Willow
  • Dove

Names Based on Color and Markings

Different coat colors can inspire perfect names:

For black kittens: Midnight, Shadow, Coal, Onyx, Panther

If you have a mini panther at home, check out these black cat names for more ideas specifically for your dark-furred friend.

For white kittens: Snow, Cloud, Pearl, Ghost, Cotton

For tabby kittens: Tiger, Marbles, Stripes, Ziggy

For calico/tortoiseshell: Patches, Puzzle, Mosaic, Picasso

A calico with their beautiful patchwork coat might inspire you to browse these calico cat names for the perfect fit.

Names for Different Cat Sizes

For larger kittens:

  • Bear
  • Thunder
  • Goliath
  • Colossus
  • Mammoth
  • Hercules

For tiny kittens:

  • Peanut
  • Button
  • Pixel
  • Tiny
  • Dot
  • Beans
  • Twig

Themed Kitten Names

Themed names can be super fun, especially if you have a particular interest or hobby:

Food-Inspired Names

My neighbor named her orange tabby “Cheddar,” and it’s absolutely perfect for him! Other delicious options include:

  • Mochi
  • Biscuit
  • Pickle
  • Nugget
  • Waffles
  • Noodle
  • Pepper
  • Tofu
  • Truffle

Nature-Inspired Names

The natural world offers endless beautiful inspirations:

  • Willow
  • Storm
  • Aspen
  • Brook
  • Flint
  • Maple
  • Moss
  • River
  • Sky

Literary and Mythological Names

For the bookworms and myth lovers:

  • Athena
  • Gatsby
  • Hades
  • Hermione
  • Merlin
  • Poe
  • Sherlock
  • Zeus
  • Persephone

Funny and Quirky Names

Sometimes a cat just needs a name that makes people smile:

  • Sir Fluffington
  • Catastrophe
  • Chairman Meow
  • Taco
  • Waffle
  • Professor Whiskers
  • Noodle
  • Lord Purrington

Cat naming has fascinating cultural variations around the world:

In Japan, cats are often named after their colors or characteristics: Kuro (black), Shiro (white), or Chibi (small).

French cat owners tend to choose elegant, sophisticated names like Marcel, Amélie, or Coco.

In Italy, food-inspired names are common, reflecting the country’s culinary heritage.

For more international inspiration, explore these French cat names, Italian cat names, or even these Mexican cat names.

Naming Tips for Multi-Cat Households

If you’ve got more than one feline friend at home, here are some ways to create a harmonious naming system:

Complementary Name Ideas:

  • Thematic pairs: Salt & Pepper, Coffee & Cream, Moon & Star
  • Famous duos: Thelma & Louise, Batman & Robin, Bonnie & Clyde
  • Literary characters: Darcy & Elizabeth, Romeo & Juliet
  • Celestial pairs: Luna & Sol, Venus & Mars, Star & Sky

Avoiding Confusion

  • Use different-sounding names that don’t rhyme
  • Vary the number of syllables
  • Avoid names starting with the same sound
  • Consider different name endings

I once knew someone with cats named “Missus” and “Mister”—cute idea, but they could never tell which cat they were calling!

What to Do If You Change Your Mind

Sometimes a name just doesn’t stick. If you’re having second thoughts:

When to rename: Within the first few months is easiest, but cats can adapt at any age.

How to rename smoothly:

  1. Use the new name alongside the old one initially
  2. Reward your cat when they respond to the new name
  3. Be consistent—get everyone in the household using the new name
  4. Give it time—most cats adjust within a few weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I name my kitten?
While there’s no rush, establishing a name within the first week or two helps form your bond and starts the name recognition process.

Can I use a human name for my cat?
Absolutely! Human names like Max, Lily, or Sam are among the most popular for cats. Just be aware that calling “Charlotte” at the park might get some confused looks from humans with the same name.

Should I avoid certain names?
Avoid names that sound like common commands (“Kit” sounds like “sit”) or names that might age poorly (like joke names that might seem less funny years later).

Fun Facts About Kitten Names

  • According to research, cats respond better to names ending in an “ee” sound due to their sensitivity to high-pitched tones.
  • The poet T.S. Eliot claimed in his poem “The Naming of Cats” that every cat needs three names: a formal name, a unique name, and a secret name only the cat knows.
  • Most popular cat names have shifted dramatically from the 1950s (when “Boots” and “Fluffy” dominated) to today’s more human-like naming trends.
  • A 2024 survey found that 68% of cat owners consider their pet’s personality before finalizing their name, often changing their initial choice after spending time with their new pet.

Resources for More Name Inspiration

Still searching for the perfect name? These resources might help:

  • Cat name generators online that match names to colors and personalities
  • Pet-focused social media groups where you can poll other cat lovers
  • Baby name books (seriously, they’re a goldmine for cat names too!)
  • Cat usernames for digital inspiration

Final Thoughts on Finding the Perfect Name

Remember that naming your kitten should be fun! Take your time, try out different options, and eventually, you’ll find something that feels just right. The perfect name creates a special bond between you and your furry family member that will last a lifetime.

After all, as someone who spent a full week trying out different names for my cat before landing on the perfect one, I can tell you that when you find “the name,” you’ll just know it. It’ll fit them like their own fur—completely natural and absolutely perfect.

What did you end up naming your kitten? Every cat name has a story behind it, and I’d love to hear yours!