Cat naming trends shift faster than dog names. Cats attract more "weird cool" names, more pop culture references, and more names that sound like they belong to a minor villain in a Victorian novel. Here's what's trending this year.

The rise of "old person" names

Mabel. Theodore. Agnes. Cornelius. There's a strong trend toward giving cats names that feel like they belong to someone's grandmother or a 1940s movie character. It pairs perfectly with a cat's natural air of dignified disdain.

Top picks in this category right now: Mabel, Clyde, Harriet, Bertie, Loretta.

Mythology is back

Greek and Norse names are everywhere. Part of it is the game-to-TV pipeline, but these names also just work for cats — they're short, often end in vowels, and feel appropriately dramatic.

Trending: Loki, Artemis, Freya, Athena, Ares. Loki in particular has been in the top 10 for male cats three years running.

Food names are not going anywhere

"Mochi," "Biscuit," "Waffles," "Noodle," "Pickles." Food names remain extremely popular because they tend to be two syllables, soft-sounding, and easy to love. Bonus: they spark conversation.

The current frontrunner in this category: Mochi, which topped several naming registries in 2025.

What to avoid in 2026

"Luna" — still beautiful, but at peak saturation. There will be three Lunas at every vet's office.
"Bella" — same situation, one cycle behind Luna.
Any name from a show that just ended its final season. It dates fast.

Find your cat's name

The best cat name is the one that makes you happy to say it — your cat will learn it regardless. If you want a personalized pick, take our name quiz — it factors in personality, look, and vibe to suggest names that actually fit.