Cats have been domesticated for more than 4000 years. It all started when they earned the affection of the ancient Egyptians. Soon after, domesticated felines were worshipped as gods and goddesses. This might explain why cats think so highly of themselves.
Some historians believe that the formation of cities had to do with bringing cats and humans closer together. What is the one animal that thrives in the underbelly of cities? Rodents. An abundance of rodents is what supposedly attracted cats to the cities.
Now, cats are the adorable internet stars we know and love. They have incredibly diverse personalities, therefore, they deserve to be named appropriately. Luckily, this post will guide you to find the right name for your tomcat.
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13 Most Popular Male Cat Names
When it comes to naming your cat, there are a lot of factors to take into consideration. Your cat’s personality is probably the biggest indicator of what its name should be. This is especially important when it comes to male cats.
I’m sure that you have heard the myth that male cats tend to be more affectionate to their owners. However, this is completely dependent on the individual cat’s character.
Without further ado, here are the 13 most in-demand male cat names.
1. Simba
This name is perfect for regal and distinguished cats. Cats named Simba typically have soft features that are easy on the eye. If your cat is a Simba, you can usually find him posing for a photoshoot at every moment. These are very photogenic cats.
Simba’s usually have a playful nature and approach every interaction with the grace of a royal. The name originates from the Swahili language and it translates to lion. This throwback to The Lion King movie is timeless.
2. Jasper
Jasper is the perfect name for your sly little man. If you have an athletic cat, chances are he is a Jasper. They are mischievous when they want to be, but in an endearing way. He will remind you not to take life so seriously.
Jasper is derived from Greek, meaning ‘spotted or speckled stone’. If your cat has a dotted coat, then this is a great name for him. Jasper is also a type of stone that is believed to wash away negative energy. We think this is quite an apt description of cats named Jasper.
3. Oliver
Olivers, or Ollie for short, are inquisitive cats that are keen to explore. They can be quite short-tempered at times so it is probably a good idea to check out this guide on training cats not to bite. They are mostly playful in nature, though.
An important purchase that you are bound to make as an Oliver owner is chew toys. They love to chew things and will take any opportunity to do so.
4. Max
This classic pet name is for happy-go-lucky cats. Felines named Max have super-friendly personalities and they love to be petted and groomed. If you want your cat to be your best friend, make sure you understand how to pet your cat.
Cats named Max tend to like their independence. Make sure that you are giving them the space that they need and you will be rewarded with cat cuddles and affection.
5. Charlie
Unlike in the viral video, Charlie bit my finger, your cat will most likely not bite your finger. Charlie’s are described as sweet-natured cats with warm personalities. They are fiercely loyal cats and will stick by their owners through thick and thin.
These cats can be very playful, so make sure to have a few extra cat toys laying around. This will help to keep them out of mischief too.
6. Jack
The name Jack has its name rooted in the streets. These cats tend to be mixed breeds, which are known for being loyal and loving. Cats named Jack are often described as being quiet and carefree.
Dogs, and cats named Jack, can truly be called man’s best friend. Their quiet grace and fun loving nature makes them indistinguishable.
7. Shadow
This is a great name for a black cat. They have been described as being shy to strangers and will take longer to approach people. This aloofness is probably what caused the superstition surrounding black cats.
Anyone who has owned a black cat will tell you that they make loving and loyal pets. They will attach themselves to your side, like a shadow. This makes it the perfect name for your black cat.
8. Tigger
This name is great for cats who have a wild nature but are soft at heart. They are often the source of viral videos of cats bouncing off the walls. Tiggers are the source of endless entertainment for pet owners.
9. Smokey
If you’re naming your cat Smokey, it’s likely either a grey cat or one with tons of attitude. They are usually very sweet, but prepare to bear the brunt if you do something they don’t like. Most Smokeys are quite gentle and prefer to stare out of the window.
They make for great reading and writing companions, too. Let your Smokey be the source of your boundless creativity.
10. Rocky
Even though this name is synonymous with a boxing movie, the average Rocky is no fighter. Although they are not typically fighters, they are known to be fit and strong. Maybe this is why the name is so fitting for this type of cat.
They usually are playful and energetic, with larger-than-life personalities. They will brighten up even your worst days.
11. George
Have you ever met a cat named George that isn’t laidback? That’s because they are few and far in between. These cats are often very chilled and prefer to spend their days lazing around in a sunny spot.
These cats do have a reputation for being a bit on the heavy side, so make sure you watch their weight. That doesn’t mean that you can’t sneak them the odd treat or two, though.
12. Bailey
This is a wonderful name for cats that are loyal, good-natured and highly trainable. This is because they are smart cats that are eager to please. This is also the reason why they make great barn cats for farms, which is probably where the name originated.
13. Oreo
This type of cat is bound to like tasty treats, so make sure that you stock up. They are also common names for cats that have a blend of black and white fur. They are loyal and friendly cats with a tendency to be laidback around other animals. This makes them great additions to any family with other pets, like dogs.
Will my Cat Even Notice their Name?
Sure humans get excited about cat names – but does our kitty even know its own name let alone care? Research shows that domesticated cats do know and recognise their names.
The research was appropriately carried out by the University of Tokyo (home to many cat cafes which were actually used in this study) and was published in the well-reputed journal Nature.
It had been well known that domesticated cats were more vocal than wild cats and that a domesticated cat’s behaviour is influenced by their owners’ mood and facial expressions.
But considering that humans began domesticating cats about 9,500 years ago it is about time a more in-depth study was done about whether our cats even knew their own names.
The study worked with 78 different cats across single and multi-cat homes as well as in cat cafes. The study found that most cats are able to distinguish their names from similar-sounding words and from other cat names.
The evidence of this was that the cats perked up when they heard their names and responded by moving their heads, meowing and wiggling their ears.
This result was witnessed when both their owners and strangers used their names. And the results were similar in multi-cat households where cats didn’t react to the names of other cats in their homes but did when their name was used.
Naming a cat gives it an individual identity and helps to build a relationship between cat and owner. And you can help your cat to learn its own name by avoiding using too many nicknames, particularly when they are younger.
Key Things to Think About when Naming your Cat
1. Your Cat’s Appearance
The color of your cat or its markings can help you make a choice. Look at your kitty’s shape as well – is he sleek or solid? Pointy ears or flat back ears? Fluffy or sleek? Think about the concept of Onomatopoeia. This is when a word looks like what it describes.
2. The Personality of your Cat
A great cat name may reflect your cat’s personality. This can be difficult with a new cat as of course you haven’t gotten to know them yet and your cat may be very young so its personality is still developing. Take a few days to observe your new kitty and see what it is like.
3. Your Cat’s Breed
Breeds can provide name ideas. How about Richard Parker for a Himalayan Cat?
4. Keep the name Short
You will use your cat’s name an awful lot – so the fewer the syllables the better. Also, this will be easier for your cat to absorb and remember.
Plus it is likely that you will be introducing your cat to friends, family, vets and others so a shorter name is easier for everyone to understand and remember.
5. Don’t choose a name that is bigger than your cat
Aslan might not be the best bet if your cat is a Munchkin.
6. The name should have longevity
It may seem hilarious to give your cat a lengthy name when you first get it but you may well tire of calling this name out and sharing it with others.
7. Be nice
Names that aren’t terribly flattering to your feline will most likely tire quickly such as Cow.
8. Make sure it fits with other cats in your household
Food is a great opportunity to develop matching names for cats in your household – like Pepper and Salt. Or Sylvester and Tweety. Or Ebony and Ivory. So many good combinations and options!
What if I choose the wrong male cat name?
I know I let you know that your cat does learn its name but if you choose to change your cat’s name after a few weeks it shouldn’t be too much of an issue.
There is no evidence one way or the other as to what happens when a new owner changes the name of an older cat eg if you were to get a rescue kitty who was already several years old. I would suggest trying your name of choice and giving it a few months to stick and then making a decision from there.
What Is the Best Name for Your Male Cat?
If the personality of your kitty matches any of the above descriptions, then you have the perfect name for them. These are some of the most common cat names out there, so you are bound to find the right one for your fur baby. However, this is not an exhaustive list. You can get creative and name them something that speaks to you. If you have a great male cat name that’s not on this list, then let us know.
You might enjoy reading my article on funniest cat names.