You’ve just brought home a new kitten and everyone’s crowding around, cooing over those tiny paws and curious whiskers. Someone inevitably asks the million dollar question: What are you going to name them? Suddenly, the pressure’s on. Do you go classic or trendy? Human or whimsical?
Naming your cat is more than just picking a label you’ll shout across the house when dinner’s ready. It becomes part of their identity, a reflection of their personality, and honestly, a bit of a statement about you too. Research even shows that cats can recognize their own , so choosing the right one actually matters. Let’s explore the that cat owners across the country are gravitating toward right now.
Luna
Luna ranks as America’s most popular cat name for 2025, holding onto this top spot for consecutive years. This name has taken the pet world by storm. It’s particularly fitting for a black kitty since Luna means “moon” in Latin, though honestly, plenty of orange tabbies and white fluffballs wear this name proudly too.
The name’s popularity likely comes from multiple sources. Some of the name’s popularity could be due to the beloved character Luna Lovegood in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. There’s something ethereal and magical about the name that captures how mysterious and enchanting cats can be. It’s short, easy to say, and has that vowel ending that cats seem to recognize best.
Bella
Bella takes one of the top three spots for the most popular feline names in the country, having moved up from number four. Meaning “beautiful” in Italian, Bella is a popular choice for female cats known for their beauty and grace. You can’t deny that it fits perfectly for those elegant felines who seem to know they’re gorgeous.
This name works beautifully for any cat with a refined presence, whether she’s strutting across the room or delicately grooming herself in a sunbeam. It’s simple yet sophisticated, and let’s be real, it sounds lovely when you’re calling your cat inside before bed.
Leo
Leo takes one of the top three spots for the most popular feline names, having moved up from number 10. Leo could be a nod to the lion, a much bigger cat than our domestic felines but a cat nonetheless, as the lion represents the Leo zodiac sign. There’s something wonderfully fitting about giving your house cat a name that connects them to their wild, majestic relatives.
This name works perfectly for confident, bold cats who think they run the household. Short and punchy, it’s easy for kids to say and remember. Whether your Leo is a fearless explorer or just has a regal attitude when demanding treats, the name captures that feline sense of importance.
Milo
Milo ranks just behind Luna as one of America’s . Milo is a popular boy cat name that means “soldier” in Latin, “merciful” in German, and “beloved” in Slavic languages. The name has ancient roots but feels fresh and modern, which explains why it keeps climbing the charts.
Milo has become more common recently thanks to actor Milo Ventimiglia, who starred in the television series This Is Us and Gilmore Girls. It’s got that perfect balance between being a recognizable human name and something playful enough for a mischievous kitten who’s always getting into trouble.
Oliver
Oliver makes up part of the top five in America. This classic name has remained a favorite among cat owners for years. Consider the name Oliver from the Charles Dickens classic Oliver Twist if you’re a literary buff, though plenty of people choose it simply because it sounds friendly and approachable.
The name works wonderfully for sociable, sweet cats who love attention. Many owners shorten it to Ollie, which adds an extra dose of cuteness. It’s the kind of name that suits a kitten but doesn’t sound ridiculous when your cat is a dignified senior lounging in their favorite chair.
Charlie
Charlie rounds out the top five, having gained in popularity to come in at number two after just missing the top five a year prior. Charlie is a common name for boy cats, but it can also be a unisex name for all kitties, making it a friendly-sounding unisex name for those who love human names for pets.
This name has broad appeal because it works for any personality type. Whether you’ve got a laid back lounger or an energetic troublemaker, Charlie just fits. It’s approachable, warm, and familiar without being boring. The versatility alone makes it worth considering.
Lily
Lily makes up the top five across the country. Lily is a floral name that’s popular for female cats and is a great choice for a gentle and elegant cat. There’s something delicate and pretty about this name that matches perfectly with graceful felines.
The name evokes images of beauty and purity, making it ideal for white cats or those with sweet, calm personalities. It’s short enough to be practical but lovely enough to feel special. Plus, it ends with that vowel sound cats respond to best.
Kitty
Kitty remains a popular pick and is ranked eighth on the list. It’s all in the name, whether a child is naming the cat using one of the first synonyms they learn for the animal or a rescue has conditioned an unnamed cat to respond to the classic nickname. Some things never go out of style.
Honestly, there’s a charm to keeping it simple and straightforward. Kitty feels warm and affectionate, like an endearment more than a formal name. It’s particularly popular among families with young children who are learning to talk and need something easy to pronounce.
Simba
Simba is Swahili for “lion” and is associated with strength and power. 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. Multiple generations have now grown up with this beloved movie, cementing Simba’s place in popular cat culture.
The name works beautifully for confident male cats with big personalities. There’s something endearing about watching a tiny kitten respond to such a powerful name, and it grows with them as they develop into their full feline majesty.
Lucy
Lucy rounds out the top five in recent surveys. Vintage human names like Lucy are increasing in popularity among human parents and make excellent cat names as well. It’s got that retro feel that’s become trendy again, appealing to owners who want something classic but not stuffy.
This name suits friendly, social cats who love being the center of attention. It’s easy to call out, simple to spell, and has a cheerful sound that matches playful personalities perfectly. Lucy feels timeless in the best possible way.
Max
Max is one of three newcomers to the top 10 spots, coming in at number nine. This strong, one syllable name packs a punch. It’s straightforward and masculine without being overly aggressive, making it perfect for confident male cats of any size.
Max works equally well for a tiny kitten and a large Maine Coon. There’s no fuss, no frills, just a solid name that gets the job done. It’s the kind of name that feels reliable and unpretentious.
Shadow
Shadow is one of three newcomers to the top 10 spots, ranking at number 10. Shadow topped the list as one of the more classic cat monikers alongside others like Pepper and Coco. This name works wonderfully for cats who like to follow you everywhere or those with dark, mysterious coats.
There’s something poetic about naming your constant companion Shadow, especially when they have that cat tendency to appear silently right behind you. It captures the slightly mystical, sneaky nature that makes cats so fascinating.
Oreo
Oreo is one of three newcomers to the top 10 spots, coming in at number seven. This food inspired name has exploded in popularity, particularly for black and white cats whose markings resemble the famous cookie. It’s playful, fun, and instantly recognizable.
The rise of food themed pet names reflects a broader trend toward whimsical, personality driven choices. Oreo feels lighthearted and sweet, perfect for cats with a fun loving spirit or distinctive two tone coloring that practically demands the name.
Loki
The Marvel-inspired Loki makes up the top 10 . Loki is a unique name that’s gaining popularity and is a fitting choice for a playful and mischievous cat. Anyone familiar with Norse mythology or Marvel movies knows Loki as the trickster god, making it absolutely perfect for cats with attitude.
This name captures that mischievous streak that so many cats have. If your kitten is always knocking things off counters, stealing socks, or plotting elaborate schemes to reach the treat jar, Loki might be the ideal match. It’s edgy without being too out there.
Pepper
The rest of the top 25 monikers included a mix of cat classics, including Pepper. Pepper is one of the more classic cat monikers that continues to maintain popularity year after year. This spunky name works great for gray, black, or salt and pepper colored cats.
Pepper has that perfect mix of being traditional enough to feel familiar but unique enough to stand out. It’s got personality and spice, matching cats who are full of energy and charm. The name just sounds fun when you say it out loud.
Coco
Coco is included among the mix of cat classics in the top 25 monikers. Coco is one of the more classic cat monikers that cat owners continue to love. This sophisticated name has a certain elegance to it, perhaps inspired by the legendary fashion designer Coco Chanel.
The name works beautifully for brown cats or those with rich, chocolate colored coats. It’s chic and stylish without being pretentious. Coco feels modern and timeless all at once, making it a safe choice that won’t feel dated in a few years.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect name for your feline friend is both exciting and surprisingly meaningful. The of 2025 reveal interesting patterns in how we view our pets, from celestial inspired choices like Luna to playful food names like Oreo. Whether you’re drawn to classic options that have stood the test of time or trending names influenced by pop culture, the right name will feel natural when you say it.
Remember that your cat’s name becomes part of daily life, something you’ll use countless times for years to come. The best choice is one that resonates with you and somehow captures your cat’s unique spirit. So which name are you leaning toward for your new furry companion?
