Tips for naming a cat
Cats respond best to names with high-pitched, "ee" endings, such as Kitty, Mochi and Ziggy, perhaps because they sound like the voice we already use with them. Two-syllable names are easy to call out. If your cat came from a shelter with a name it already knows, you can blend it into the new one (Mia becomes Mila), so the change is easier.
Frequently asked questions
Do cats know their names?
Yes. A 2019 study in Scientific Reports found cats can tell their own name apart from similar-sounding words, even when a stranger says it. Whether they come when called is another matter.
What are popular cat names?
Luna, Oliver, Leo, Milo, Charlie, Simba, Bella, Kitty and Loki regularly top US cat name lists.