The 11 Most Popular Cat Names for 2025

When you become a new cat parent, you face many decisions, including what to name your furry friend. While the best cat names are largely a matter of personal preference, a few simple guidelines will help you choose a name with staying power. 

Remember, that cute, tiny kitten is going to grow, and they need a name suitable for a lifetime. You also want to choose a name you feel comfortable using in front of friends, family, veterinarians, and neighbors.

If you need some inspiration to get started, we pulled the 11 most common cat names. These names are based on data from thousands of new Pumpkin customers between January 2024 and December 2024. Many of these names also made the American Kennel Club’s list of the most popular dog names of 2024. 

1. Luna 

Luna was the most popular cat name in 2024, and we expect that trend to continue into 2025. It’s a particularly good name for a black kitty since Luna means “moon” in Latin. Luna was also the divine embodiment of the moon in Roman mythology, often seen driving a white chariot across the sky. 

Some of the name’s popularity could also be due to the beloved character Luna Lovegood in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Luna also topped our list of the most common dog names.

2. Milo 

Milo is a popular boy cat name that means “soldier” in Latin, “merciful” in German, and “beloved” in Slavic languages. This famous name has been used since the 9th century BC. Milo has become more common recently thanks to actor Milo Ventimiglia, who starred in the television series This Is Us and Gilmore Girls. 

Milo can stand on its own, but it may also be short for names like Emilio or Camillo. The American Kennel Club (AKC) also listed it as the top name for male dogs in 2024. It’s rising on the list of popular human names for baby boys, too.

3. Leo 

This popular name for male cats is in good company, shared by novelist Leo Tolstoy, artist (and ninja turtle) Leonardo da Vinci, and actor Leonardo DiCaprio, among countless others. Leo was also the name of 13 popes, five of whom have since been declared saints. The name means “lion” in Italian and “lion-hearted” or “brave” in German, fitting the personality of many bold and curious kitties. 

Leo is also one of the 12 signs of the zodiac, designated for people born between July 23 and August 22. Leos are often seen as natural leaders. 

4. Oliver 

The name Oliver is derived from the English term for “olive tree,” which is associated with peace and prosperity. It’s a popular name for humans and pet parents alike in the U.S., UK, Canada, and Australia. Many Olivers go by the nickname Olly or Ollie.

Are you a literary buff who recently welcomed a new rescue cat or orphaned kitten into your home? Then consider the name Oliver from the Charles Dickens classic Oliver Twist. (For a mischievous kitty, we also love the name “Dodger,” the name of the beloved street urchin and pickpocket from Dickens’ novel.)

5. Charlie

Charlie is a common name for boy cats, but it can also be a unisex name for all kitties. If you love human names for pets, this is a friendly-sounding unisex name. It’s often short for Charles and is regularly seen on lists for human babies. 

This is a well-known name thanks to famous Charlies like Charlie Brown and Charlie Chaplin. Variations of the spelling include Charley or Charly.

6. Mochi 

Some of the most common cat names are based on food (particularly snacks and desserts), and none more so than Mochi. This gender-neutral name comes from a sweet Japanese rice cake frequently eaten at the Japanese New Year. The cake symbolizes good fortune and is often enjoyed during festivals and ceremonies. Like the sweet treat, Mochi is an ideal name for a playful and affectionate male or female kitty. 

This unusual name was also the name of a cat in Disney’s Big Hero 6.

7. Loki 

Looking for pet names for your curious kitten who always seems to keep you on your toes? Loki is the namesake of the Norse god of mischief, making it the perfect choice for frisky male cats. The trickster was known for his ability to shapeshift to evade his enemies. 

Loki is also well-known as the villainous brother of Thor in the Marvel franchise. The name means “lock” in Norse languages and is frequently associated with cleverness, spirit, and trickery. 

8. Pumpkin

This common term of endearment for pets and people is a sweet name choice for male or female kitties. Pumpkins symbolize prosperity and luck in many cultures. It’s a good choice for ginger kittens or cats with an autumn birthday. It’s also good for gentle kitties who are friendly to everyone they meet.

9. Willow 

This magical name is perfect for female cats because it’s associated with grace and elegance. The name comes from the willow tree, known for its willowy structure and ability to thrive in nearly any condition. Some folklore also attributes supernatural powers to willow trees. 

10. Lucy 

This charming English name is quite suitable for girl cats who are distinctly ladylike and slightly aloof. It’s also a top name for female dogs, appearing on both our list of common cat names and the AKC’s 2024 list. It’s derived from a Latin word for “light” or “light bringer.”

Lucy can be used as a nickname for Lucille or Lucia. You may also use an alternate spelling like Luci or Lucie if you prefer. Famous Lucys include Lucy Liu (actor), Lucille Ball (comedienne), and Lucy Lawless (actor, director, and warrior-princess).

11. Simba  

This strong Swahili word is a common name for a male cat. African tribes used to give this name to people in the tribe that showed leadership, courage, and bravery. Simba is Swahili for “lion” and is associated with strength and power. The popularity of the name has also risen among human babies in recent years. 

Of course, the best-known “Simba” is the main protagonist in Disney’s The Lion King, which launched the name to the top of many lists. Clearly, pet parents love taking inspiration for pet names from Disney movies, as this is the third Disney-related name on our list.

What to consider when choosing a name for your cat

Most of the names on this list follow a common naming rule for pets: simple names with two syllables that are easy to say and hear. Most also end in a vowel sound, which is easier for a cat to recognize. 

When naming your new kitty, choose a name that sounds different from any other name in the family (two- or four-legged) to avoid confusion. This is especially important if you plan to train your cat to recognize their name and come when you call them.  

Your kitty deserves the best care throughout their life, and naming them is just the first step. Next, prepare yourself for unexpected medical concerns with a Pumpkin Cat Insurance plan. Pet insurance helps cover eligible vet bills as they pop up in the future, which lets you focus on caring for your pet rather than the cost.

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