Funny Cat Names: 250+ Silly, Weird and Hilarious Ideas

The funniest cat names are the ones that clash with the cat. A huge, fluffy Maine Coon called Tiny. A tiny kitten called Moose. A cat with a very ordinary human name like Kevin or Doris. Below you will find more than 250 funny, silly, weird and hilarious cat names, split into boy names, girl names, food names, puns and names for orange, black and grey cats. Further down are the 150 classic, creative and international names that have always been on this page.

Funny cat names: our 30 favourites

These are the names that work on almost any cat. Some are funny because they're blunt, some because they belong to a completely different animal, and some because they sound like what your cat does at three in the morning.

1. Chonk: for a cat with a generous build and no shame about it.
2. Gremlin: the cat who turns into a menace after dark.
3. Goose: a different animal entirely, which is half the joke.
4. Tiny: works best on a ten-kilo Maine Coon.
5. Moose: works best on a kitten that fits in one hand.
6. Dog: guaranteed confusion at the vet's reception desk.
7. Potato: for a round, sofa-shaped cat.
8. Nugget: small, golden and very easy to love.
9. Crumpet: a very British name for a very cosy cat.
10. Pickles: sounds cheerful and slightly unhinged.
11. Bean: for a little kitten with toe beans to match.
12. Furball: honest, if a bit unflattering.
13. Meowzer: for a cat who never stops talking.
14. Mr Mistoffelees: the magical cat from T.S. Eliot's Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats and the musical Cats.
15. Rum Tum Tugger: another Eliot cat, the one who always wants to be on the other side of the door.
16. Skimbleshanks: the railway cat from the same book. Long, silly and fun to shout.
17. Pudge: for a cat who has found the treat cupboard.
18. Yeti: for a big white or cream long-haired cat.
19. Chewbacca: for a shaggy cat with a lot to say. Chewie for short.
20. Ewok: for a small, fluffy cat with a round face.
21. Mogwai: cute by day. Never feed after midnight.
22. Hobnob: named after the biscuit, for a cat who likes to mingle.
23. Trouble: you'll be saying it a lot anyway.
24. Rascal: for a cheeky cat who knows exactly what he's doing.
25. Bruce: a big, sensible name on a small, silly cat.
26. Grumpy: for the cat with the permanent frown.
27. Waffles: soft, warm and a bit ridiculous.
28. Ninja: for a cat who appears from nowhere on the kitchen counter.
29. Toast: for a cat who loves lying in the sun until warm all the way through.
30. Wombat: for a sturdy, low-slung cat who waddles more than walks.

Silly cat names

Silly names are mostly about sound. They're bouncy, a bit nonsensical and impossible to say in a stern voice, which is useful when your cat has just knocked a mug off the table.

1. Noodle: for a long, bendy cat.
2. Wobble: for a kitten still working out how legs work.
3. Bumble: for a cat who bumps into everything.
4. Fuzzbucket: an affectionate insult.
5. Squish: for a cat made mostly of cheeks.
6. Snorkel: for a cat who snores.
7. Bloop: the sound a cat makes landing slightly wrong.
8. Wiggles: for the bottom wiggle before every pounce.
9. Doodle: for a cat with random markings.
10. Fidget: for a cat who never sits still.
11. Puddle: for a cat who melts into a flat heap when relaxed.
12. Zoomies: for the midnight sprint up and down the hall.
13. Floof: self-explanatory.
14. Boop: for a cat with a very pressable nose.
15. Kerfuffle: for a cat who causes one wherever she goes.
16. Gobbledygook: Gobby for short, for a cat with a lot to say.
17. Bubbles: sweet, bright and a little bit daft.
18. Tumble: for a clumsy kitten.
19. Flump: the noise of a cat dropping onto your bed.
20. Splodge: for a cat with one big patch of colour.
21. Hiccup: for a small, surprising cat.
22. Sneezy: for a cat who sneezes at dust, pepper and you.
23. Bonkers: for a cat with no off switch.
24. Dingbat: lovingly meant.
25. Wonky: for a cat with a crooked tail, ear or walk.

Weird cat names

Weird cat names take something completely ordinary from daily life and put it on a cat. The odder the object, the better the conversation at parties. They also have the advantage that no other cat in your street will share the name.

1. Toaster: for a cat who always finds the warmest spot.
2. Spreadsheet: for a cat who sits on your laptop.
3. Gravel: for a grey, speckled cat.
4. Tuesday: named after the day you brought him home.
5. Carburettor: for a cat with a loud, rumbling purr.
6. Wi-Fi: you'll never stop looking for it.
7. Lampshade: for a tall cat who sits very still on the sideboard.
8. Doorstop: for a cat who always lies exactly where you need to walk.
9. Stapler: for a cat with a sharp bite and a short temper.
10. Fax Machine: for an older cat with old-fashioned habits.
11. Pamphlet: thin, flat and found on every surface.
12. Tax Return: for a cat you keep putting off dealing with.
13. Moth: for a cat drawn to every light.
14. Barnacle: for a cat who clings to you.
15. Kettle: for a cat who whistles, hisses or boils over.
16. Mortgage: because she's going to cost you for the next twenty years.
17. Voicemail: for a cat who ignores you and gets back to you later.
18. Postcode: for a cat who checks on the whole neighbourhood.
19. Cardigan: soft, warm and slightly old-fashioned.
20. Thermostat: for a cat who decides how warm the house should be.
21. Paperclip: for a small, bendy cat.
22. Roundabout: for a cat who runs in circles.
23. Wheelie Bin: for a cat who eats anything.
24. Gargoyle: for a cat who perches on the windowsill and glares.
25. Cthulhu: for a cat with an air of ancient, unknowable evil.

Hilarious cat names

The quickest way to make a cat name hilarious is to give it a title. Cats already behave like royalty, so a name like Admiral Whiskerbottom simply makes it official. In daily life you'll shorten it anyway, so pick one with a good short version.

1. Sir Pounce-a-Lot: a knight of the sofa.
2. Lord Fluffington the Third: for a long-haired cat with airs and graces.
3. Admiral Whiskerbottom: for a cat who commands the household.
4. Captain Fuzzypants: for a cat with fluffy back legs.
5. Professor Snugglesworth: for a wise, cuddly old cat.
6. Baron von Napsalot: for a cat who sleeps most of the day.
7. His Royal Floofness: Floof for short.
8. The Right Honourable Mr Biscuits: for a cat who kneads.
9. Major Tom: after the David Bowie song, for a cat who stares into space.
10. Colonel Mustard: from the board game Cluedo, ideal for a yellowish cat.
11. Doctor Fluffenstein: for a cat with a mad-scientist look in his eyes.
12. General Nuisance: needs no explanation.
13. Lady Mews-a-Lot: for a chatty, elegant cat.
14. Archbishop of Naptime: for the cat who leads by example.
15. Countess Chonkula: for a large, dramatic cat with a dark coat.
16. Sergeant Snacks: on duty at every mealtime.
17. Detective Inspector Whiskers: investigates every bag you bring home.
18. Squire Snoozington: for a country cat who naps by the fire.
19. Commander Crumbs: patrols under the kitchen table.
20. Madame Chonk: the elegant sister of plain old Chonk.
21. Sir Knocks-Things-Off-Tables: for a cat with a known track record.
22. Mayor McFloof: for a cat everyone in the street knows.
23. Duchess of Doorways: for a cat who can never decide whether she wants in or out.
24. Lieutenant Loafington: for a cat who sits with all four paws tucked under, like a loaf of bread.
25. Emperor Fuzzface: for a cat with a big round face and a bigger ego.

Funny boy cat names

Funny male cat names are often plain human names, the more ordinary the better. A tom cat called Kevin or Derek sounds as if he has a job, a pension and opinions about the bins. That's the joke, and it never gets old.

1. Kevin: for a cat who acts like he pays the mortgage.
2. Gary: friendly, a bit scruffy and always around.
3. Steve: for a calm, reliable cat.
4. Nigel: for a fussy, particular cat.
5. Clive: for a cat who looks like he works in accounts.
6. Derek: for a big tom with a big walk.
7. Keith: for a cat who just gets on with it.
8. Colin: polite, tidy and a bit nervous.
9. Brian: for a cat with a slightly worried face.
10. Trevor: for a cat who always looks a bit surprised.
11. Barry: for a chunky cat with a loud purr.
12. Gerald: for a dignified older cat.
13. Norman: for a cat who prefers his routine.
14. Dave: short, easy and impossible to take seriously.
15. Graham: for a cat with a neat, grey coat.
16. Alan: for a quiet cat who watches everything.
17. Malcolm: for a cat with a fierce side.
18. Roger: for a confident cat who struts.
19. Terry: for a cat who loves a good towel.
20. Doug: for a cat who digs in every plant pot.
21. Bernard: for a big, gentle cat.
22. Mr Bigglesworth: Dr Evil's hairless cat in the Austin Powers films, perfect for a Sphynx.
23. Reginald: Reggie for short, for a posh cat.
24. Phil: as in "fill", for a cat who's never full.
25. Geoff: a cat who looks like he has a shed.
26. Dennis: for a cat who's always up to mischief.
27. Frank: for a cat who tells you exactly how he feels.
28. Ian: short, plain and oddly funny on a cat.
29. Kenneth: for a cat with old-fashioned manners.
30. Mervyn: for a cat who looks a bit like a wizard.

Funny girl cat names

The female version of the same trick is the name of a much-loved great-aunt. Funny girl cat names like Doris, Mavis and Beryl suit a queen who runs the house, keeps an eye on the neighbours and expects her tea on time.

1. Doris: for a cat who's always looking out of the window.
2. Brenda: for a no-nonsense cat.
3. Maureen: for a cat with a lot of opinions.
4. Pam: short, warm and friendly.
5. Sandra: for a cat with a sandy-coloured coat.
6. Beryl: for a cat who's seen it all.
7. Gladys: for a cat who's glad to see you, sometimes.
8. Mavis: for a cat who knows everyone's business.
9. Ethel: for a sweet, gentle senior cat.
10. Linda: for a cat who loves a sunbed.
11. Agatha: for a cat who solves mysteries, mainly about where the treats are.
12. Bertha: for a big, sturdy girl.
13. Hilda: for a cat with a strong will.
14. Edna: for a cat with a stern look.
15. Dot: for a tiny kitten or a cat with one spot.
16. Shirley: for a cat with curly fur, like a Devon or Cornish Rex.
17. Gertrude: Gertie for short.
18. Pauline: for a calm and sensible cat.
19. Joan: for a cat with quiet authority.
20. Myrtle: for a cat who hides in the bathroom.
21. Wendy: for a cat who comes and goes like the wind.
22. Babs: for a glamorous cat.
23. Mildred: for a mild-mannered cat.
24. Prudence: for a careful cat who checks everything twice.
25. Nancy: sweet and a bit cheeky.
26. Duchess: after the mother cat in Disney's The Aristocats.
27. Marjorie: for a cat who likes things just so.
28. Winifred: Winnie for short.
29. Phyllis: for a cat with a lot of character.
30. Jean: simple and oddly perfect on a cat.

Funny food names for cats

Food names are among the most popular funny cat names, and for good reason. They're short, cheerful and often match a coat colour. A small warning: the name is the only part of many of these foods your cat should get. Chocolate, coffee, onions, garlic and grapes are harmful to cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA's animal poison control centre.

1. Meatball: for a round, solid cat.
2. Dumpling: for a soft, squishy cat.
3. Burrito: for a cat who loves being wrapped in a blanket.
4. Nacho: for a cheesy-orange cat.
5. Ramen: for a cat with wavy fur.
6. Wonton: small, round and sweet.
7. Bagel: for a cat who sleeps curled in a ring.
8. Pretzel: for a cat who sleeps in impossible positions.
9. Muffin: for a cat with a top that's bigger than the bottom.
10. Pancake: for a cat who lies completely flat.
11. Butterbean: for a pale, smooth little cat.
12. Fishfinger: for a cat who would like one, please.
13. Haggis: for a Scottish Fold, or any shaggy cat.
14. Scone: pronounce it however you like.
15. Jaffa: for an orange-and-black cat, like the cake.
16. Marmite: for a black cat people either love or hate.
17. Custard: for a cream or pale yellow cat.
18. Crouton: for a small, crunchy-tempered cat.
19. Gnocchi: for a little dumpling of a cat.
20. Tofu: for a white cat with a mild personality.
21. Halloumi: for a cat who squeaks.
22. Chorizo: for a spicy, red-brown cat.
23. Falafel: for a round, golden-brown cat.
24. Samosa: for a cat with a triangular face.
25. Bao: for a soft white kitten.
26. Pistachio: for a cat with green eyes.
27. Olive: for a dark cat with a sweet nature.
28. Sausage: for a long, low cat.
29. Kipper: for a cat who loves fish and naps.
30. Bhaji: for a golden, fluffy cat.

Looking for more? Sushi, Mochi, Espresso, Chai, Taco, Paprika, Cinnamon, Pumpkin, Pepper, Oreo and Coco are all in the lists further down.

Cat pun names

Cat puns work best when the original name is famous enough that everybody gets it straight away. Change one sound to "cat", "paw", "purr", "claw" or "meow" and you're there.

1. Chairman Meow: for the cat who runs the household.
2. Cat Damon: for a cat who keeps getting lost and found.
3. Catrick Swayze: nobody puts this cat in a corner.
4. Meowly Cyrus: for a cat who came in like a wrecking ball.
5. Leonardo DiCatprio: for a cat who deserves an award.
6. Purrlock Holmes: for a cat who investigates every noise.
7. Hairy Pawter: for a long-haired cat with a lightning-bolt marking.
8. Pawl McCartney: for a cat who sings.
9. Jude Paw: hey Jude.
10. Bob Meowley: for a relaxed cat.
11. Kitty Purry: for a loud, colourful girl.
12. Fur-dinand: for a regal, fluffy tom.
13. Clawdia: for a girl who uses her claws.
14. Catniss Everdeen: the pun version of Katniss, further down.
15. Purrince: for a purple-loving owner.
16. Santa Claws: for a Christmas kitten.
17. Brad Kitt: for a handsome tom.
18. Cleocatra: for a cat with Egyptian elegance.
19. Ali Cat: for a former street cat with a lot of fight in him.
20. Fuzz Aldrin: for a cat who jumps very high.
21. Sir Isaac Mewton: for a cat who tests gravity on everything you own.
22. Cat Benatar: hit me with your best shot.
23. Catsby: the great one.
24. Pablo Picatso: for a cat with abstract markings.
25. Elvis Pawsley: for a cat with a curled lip.
26. Paw Rudd: for a cat who never seems to age.
27. Clawdette: for an elegant girl with sharp nails.
28. Purrcy: for a purring tom.
29. Mewfasa: for a regal ginger cat.
30. Clawdius: for a cat who rules like a Roman emperor.

Funny names for orange, black, grey and white cats

A cat's coat is one of the easiest places to start. You can pick a name that matches it, or one that cheerfully ignores it.

Funny names for orange cats

1. Rusty: perfect for cats with rusty or orange coats.
2. Ginger: for cats with ginger-coloured coats.
3. Ruby: for cats with red coats or striking red features.
4. Sunny: for cats with a sunny, bright coat colour.
5. Pumpkin: for orange cats, especially appropriate around Halloween.
6. Cheeto: bright orange and impossible to ignore.
7. Tango: after the orange fizzy drink.
8. Marmalade: a classic for a ginger tabby.
9. Satsuma: small, round and orange.
10. Mango: for a golden-orange cat.
11. Weasley: after the red-haired family in Harry Potter.
12. Carrot: plain and funny.
13. Butterscotch: for a pale ginger or cream cat.
14. Clementine: a sweet name for an orange girl.
15. Fanta: for a fizzy, energetic ginger cat.

Funny names for black cats

1. Ebony: for cats with deep black coats.
2. Jet: suitable for cats with shiny black coats.
3. Midnight: for cats with a deep dark coat.
4. Onyx: for cats with shiny, dark coats.
5. Salem: after the sarcastic black cat in Sabrina the Teenage Witch.
6. Vader: for a black cat with heavy breathing.
7. Binx: after the black cat Thackery Binx in Hocus Pocus.
8. Liquorice: sweet to some, an acquired taste to others.
9. Inky: for a cat who leaves paw prints everywhere.
10. Sooty: for a cat who looks like he's been up the chimney.
11. Panther: for a small black cat with big ambitions.
12. Bagheera: the black panther from The Jungle Book.
13. Toothless: the black dragon from How to Train Your Dragon, with the same big eyes.
14. Wednesday: after Wednesday Addams, for a cat with a deadpan stare.

Funny names for grey cats

1. Shadow: ideal for dark or grey cats.
2. Smoky: for cats with a smoky coat colour.
3. Silver: for cats with silver-grey coats.
4. Misty: for cats with foggy, grey fur.
5. Ash: for cats with ash-grey fur.
6. Earl Grey: for a refined grey cat who likes his routine.
7. Pebbles: for a small, round grey cat.
8. Slate: for a dark blue-grey cat like a British Shorthair.
9. Mouse: a cat named after his favourite prey.
10. Pigeon: for a grey cat who struts.
11. Elephant: for a big grey cat with heavy footsteps.
12. Smudge: for a cat with a darker grey patch.
13. Tinfoil: for a shiny silver tabby.
14. Pewter: a softer, old-fashioned word for grey.
15. Drizzle: for a grey cat with a gloomy face.

Funny names for white cats

1. Blizzard: ideal for white, fluffy cats.
2. Snowball: perfect for white, fluffy cats.
3. Pearl: for cats with a pearly coat colour.
4. Casper: after the friendly ghost.
5. Marshmallow: for a soft white cat.
6. Cotton Bud: for a small white cat with a fluffy tail.
7. Polo: after the mint with the hole.
8. Dandruff: for a white cat who leaves hair on every black jumper you own.

Brown, cream and chocolate cats

1. Goldie: for cats with golden or cream-coloured coats.
2. Cinnamon: for cats with a warm, brown coat colour.
3. Coco: for cats with chocolate-coloured coats.
4. Bourbon: after the chocolate biscuit.
5. Latte: for a milky-brown cat.

Tabby, tortie, tuxedo and patched cats

1. Marble: for cats with marbled coats.
2. Pepper: suitable for cats with speckled or spotted coats.
3. Patches: for cats with spotted or mottled coats.
4. Oreo: for black and white cats, like the biscuits.
5. Penguin: for a black and white cat with a waddle.
6. Domino: for a cat with black and white blocks.
7. Waiter: for a tuxedo cat who looks ready to take your order.
8. Tortellini: for a tortoiseshell cat.
9. Pizza: for a calico with a bit of everything on top.
10. Crumble: for a cat with a mix of browns and creams.

Names inspired by eyes and fur

1. Sapphire: for cats with striking blue eyes.
2. Amber: for cats with amber eyes.
3. Ivy: for cats with green eyes or a greenish tint in their coat.
4. Sky: for cats with light, sky-blue eyes.
5. Hazel: for cats with hazel eyes.
6. Velvet: for cats with particularly soft fur.

Classic cat names

Classic cat names have stood the test of time. They're simple, easy to call and suit almost any cat. If a funny name feels like too much, these are the safe choice.

1. Minoes: a common name in the Netherlands, best known from Annie M.G. Schmidt's children's book about a cat who turns into a woman.
2. Tom: known from Tom and Jerry, a name for a playful, curious cat.
3. Simba: after the lion cub from Disney's The Lion King.
4. Tiger: perfect for striped cats, with a touch of strength and independence.
5. Bella: means "beautiful" in Italian, popular for its elegant sound.
6. Max: a short, strong name that's easy to call.
7. Luna: Latin for "moon", often chosen for mysterious or nocturnal cats.
8. Misty: ideal for grey or misty-coloured cats.
9. Sammy: a friendly name that suits both male and female cats.
10. Ginger: popular for red-haired cats.
11. Whiskers: named after the cat's most distinctive feature.
12. Shadow: suits cats with dark fur or sneaky personalities.
13. Kitty: a traditional name, simple and sweet.
14. Felix: after Felix the Cat, the cartoon cat from the 1920s, and Latin for "lucky".
15. Garfield: after the lasagne-loving cartoon cat, ideal for orange cats.
16. Smokey: perfect for cats with a smoky coat tone.
17. Molly: a sweet name, often chosen for gentle cats.
18. Oliver: after the orange kitten in Disney's Oliver & Company.
19. Leo: Latin for "lion", a name for a brave cat.
20. Oscar: for a self-assured, independent cat.
21. Daisy: ideal for happy and playful cats.
22. Coco: stylish and chic, for elegant cats.
23. Charlie: a timeless name that can be both playful and serious.
24. Pip: short and feisty, nice for energetic cats.
25. Spike: often chosen for cats with a tough character.
26. Zoe: means "life" in Greek, perfect for lively cats.
27. Boris: a strong name with Eastern European roots.
28. Fluffy: ideal for cats with particularly soft fur.
29. Nala: from The Lion King, for dignified and beautiful cats.
30. Rocky: for cats with a strong, adventurous character.

Creative cat names

For owners who want something a step beyond the classics, creative names are inspired by space, music, weather and the odd bit of chaos.

1. Galaxy: for cats with fur that looks like a starry sky.
2. Kazoo: playful and musical, perfect for a cat with character.
3. Zephyr: for a cat who is as light and fast as the wind.
4. Quasar: for a cat with a radiant personality.
5. Mochi: after the Japanese rice cake, nice for a sweet cat.
6. Pixel: perfect for a tech-loving cat owner.
7. Sushi: a nod to Japanese cuisine, for a cat with class.
8. Espresso: for an energetic, dark cat.
9. Hobbit: for fantasy fans, a name full of adventure.
10. Kaleidoscope: for a cat with multicoloured fur.
11. Gizmo: for a smart, inventive cat.
12. Nimbus: inspired by clouds, for a dreamy cat.
13. Jazz: for a cat with a smooth, cool attitude.
14. Paprika: a feisty name for an energetic cat.
15. Bamboo: for a cat who loves climbing and adventure.
16. Orion: after the constellation, for a majestic cat.
17. Zen: for a calm and balanced cat.
18. Frost: for a cat with an icy coat or attitude.
19. Chai: a warm, spicy name for a cosy cat.
20. Kismet: means "destiny", a name with a deeper meaning.
21. Taco: for a cat with a feisty character.
22. Echo: a mysterious name, or one for a cat who answers back.
23. Riddle: for a cat who is always full of surprises.
24. Twilight: for a cat who comes alive at dusk.
25. Havoc: for a cat who likes to get into mischief.
26. Marbles: for a cat with a playful, unpredictable personality.
27. Labyrinth: for a complex and intriguing cat.
28. Vortex: for a cat with powerful, spinning energy.
29. Goblin: for a mischievous, playful cat.
30. Eclipse: for a cat who leaves an unforgettable impression.

Cat names from films and books

A name from a favourite story gives your cat a ready-made personality. Some of these are funny on their own, and the villains are especially funny on a sweet, cuddly cat.

1. Hermione: after Hermione Granger from Harry Potter, perfect for a clever, independent cat.
2. Gandalf: for wise, majestic cats, from The Lord of the Rings.
3. Sherlock: for curious, observant cats.
4. Darth: for Star Wars fans with an imposing cat.
5. Frodo: for adventurous, brave cats.
6. Bilbo: a lovely name for a cat with a big heart.
7. Aslan: after the lion from The Chronicles of Narnia, for a noble, brave cat.
8. Yoda: for a cat with big ears, wisdom and calm.
9. Arya: after Arya Stark from Game of Thrones, for a tough, independent cat.
10. Gollum: for cats with a playful, mysterious nature.
11. Pippin: cheerful and adventurous, like the hobbit from The Lord of the Rings.
12. Katniss: for cats with a strong, independent character, from The Hunger Games.
13. Spock: for logical, quiet cats.
14. Legolas: for graceful, agile cats.
15. Tyrion: for small cats with a big character.
16. Hobbes: after the tiger from the comic strip Calvin and Hobbes.
17. Loki: for mischievous, clever cats.
18. Merlin: for mysterious, magical cats.
19. Neo: for fans of The Matrix, fitting for a tough cat.
20. Albus: after Albus Dumbledore, for a wise, gentle cat.
21. Scarlett: from Gone with the Wind, for a dramatic, charismatic cat.
22. Atticus: after Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird, for a cat of noble character.
23. Hagrid: for big, friendly cats.
24. Gatsby: perfect for a stylish, charming cat.
25. Eowyn: from The Lord of the Rings, for a brave, independent cat.
26. Voldemort: for a cat with an impressive, slightly menacing character.
27. Dobby: for a small, loyal cat with big ears.
28. Batman: for a mysterious, heroic cat.
29. Trinity: for an agile, powerful cat.
30. Sauron: for a cat with an imposing presence and a fiery stare.

Cat names from around the world

An international name can honour a family background, a favourite holiday or a language you love. These names have a story or meaning behind them.

1. Akira: Japanese, meaning "bright" or "clear", perfect for an astute cat.
2. Luna: Italian and Spanish for "moon", for a cat with a mysterious look.
3. Sakura: Japanese for "cherry blossom", perfect for a delicate, beautiful cat.
4. Nino: Italian, an affectionate name for a male cat.
5. Anastasia: a Greek name meaning "resurrection", much loved in Russia, for a noble and elegant cat.
6. Diego: Spanish, strong and masculine, ideal for a brave cat.
7. Aiko: Japanese, often translated as "beloved child", perfect for a much-loved pet.
8. Leila: Arabic, meaning "night", suitable for cats with dark fur.
9. Rajah: from the Sanskrit and Hindi word for "king", for royal or majestic cats.
10. Zara: linked to the Arabic word for "flower" and to Sarah, Hebrew for "princess", ideal for an elegant cat.
11. Hiro: Japanese, often meaning "generous", for a friendly cat.
12. Esme: from Old French, meaning "esteemed" or "loved", for a particularly beloved cat.
13. Oscar: a name from Irish legend, carried by Oscar Wilde, for a cat with wit and courage.
14. Lola: Spanish, charming and playful, suitable for a happy cat.
15. Kai: Hawaiian for "sea", ideal for a cat with a calm, flowing personality.
16. Bianca: Italian for "white", perfect for a cat with a pure white coat.
17. Enzo: Italian, often explained as "ruler of the home", for a cat who runs the house.
18. Chloé: Greek, meaning "green shoot" or "blooming", for a young, lively cat.
19. Pablo: the Spanish form of Paul, which means "small". A nod to Picasso, for an artistic cat.
20. Freya: Scandinavian, after the Norse goddess of love and beauty, perfect for a graceful cat.
21. Miko: close to Mikko, the Finnish form of Michael ("who is like God"), for a cat with a majestic appearance.
22. Rafael: Hebrew, meaning "God heals", for a comforting presence.
23. Amara: an Igbo name from Nigeria meaning "grace", for a graceful and elegant cat.
24. Taro: Japanese, traditionally used for a firstborn son, perfect for a first pet.
25. Noor: Arabic, meaning "light", for a cat who brings light and joy.
26. Giselle: a French name of Germanic origin, meaning "pledge" or "promise", for a cat with a loving nature.
27. Kiran: Sanskrit, meaning "ray of light", for a cat with a sparkling personality.
28. Mateo: Spanish, meaning "gift of God", ideal for a much-wanted cat.
29. Aurora: Latin for "dawn", perfect for a cat who marks a new beginning.
30. Yasmin: Persian, meaning "jasmine flower", for a cat with soft, subtle beauty.

How to pick a funny cat name

A funny name has to survive years of daily use, so give it a quick test before you commit.

1. Say it out loud. Call it from the back door a few times. If it's a mouthful, make sure it has a short version (Lord Fluffington becomes Fluff).
2. Do the vet test. A nurse will read the name out in a full waiting room. If that thought makes you cringe, pick something else.
3. Wait a few days. A new cat's personality often shows after a week. The nervous kitten you planned to call Ninja may turn out to be a Potato.
4. Look at the coat. Colour and markings are an easy starting point, either matching (Marmalade for a ginger cat) or deliberately the opposite (Snowball for a black cat).
5. Use what you love. Favourite books, films, food, hobbies or a language from your family all make good sources, and wordplay can turn any of them into a pun.
6. Keep it different from other names in the house. If you have two cats, a dog or children, avoid names that sound alike.

That last tip has some science behind it. Researchers at the University of Tokyo found that pet cats can tell their own name apart from similar-sounding words and from the names of other cats they live with (Saito and colleagues, Scientific Reports, 2019). Cats living in a cat café were less good at telling their own name from their housemates' names, which the researchers put down to visitors using the names less consistently. So whichever name you choose, use it the same way every time.

Bringing a new cat home soon? Once the name is sorted, think about practical things too, such as the right litter for a young kitten and, if your cat will go outdoors later, a GPS tracker for your new cat.

Frequently asked questions