Naming your new kitten is a big deal – after all, you’ll be calling this name out for years to come! Popular Cat Names in California often reflect the state’s vibrant culture and lifestyle. From Hollywood-inspired monikers to nature and food references, Californians draw on everything from pop culture to the sunny climate when naming their feline friends. Recent pet name data shows that certain names consistently top the charts for California cats, with human baby names trending heavily in the mix. (It’s true – many cats in the Golden State have names you might also find in a kindergarten class!) Before we jump into the list, it’s worth noting that California’s creative flair even extends to pet names: for example, the state boasts many kitties named after foods (think Sushi, Taco, or Pumpkin), showing off its foodie culture. But which names are the most popular of all? Let’s dive in.
Top 10 Female Cat Names in California
Californian cat owners love cute, trendy names for girl cats – many of which are also popular nationwide. Below are the top 10 female cat names in California, based on recent trends and pet registration data, along with a quick note on why each name is so beloved:
- Luna – Luna has been reigning as the number-one female cat name in California (and across the U.S.) in recent years. Meaning “moon” in Spanish and Italian, Luna exudes a celestial charm. It’s a fitting choice for a cat with night-colored fur or one who seems most active during those moonlit hours. With its pretty sound and mystical vibe, it’s no surprise this name is over the moon in popularity.
- Lily – A sweet, spring-like name, Lily has bloomed into one of the top choices for female felines. The name comes from the lily flower, a symbol of innocence and purity. Many pet parents say it just feels right for a gentle, loving kitty. Lily is simple yet elegant – perfect for a cat with a calm demeanor or a pure white coat as delicate as the flower she’s named after.
- Bella – Bella literally means “beautiful” in Italian, and it’s a classic name that never seems to go out of style. California pet owners adore this name for both its meaning and its warm, friendly sound. Often a top name for dogs as well, Bella is popular for cats who are truly the beautiful center of their family’s world. This lovely name suits any graceful girl cat – whether she’s a glamorous long-haired Persian or the cutest rescue tabby on the block.
- Lucy – Old-fashioned in the best way, Lucy is a name that’s both cute and spunky. It comes from a Latin word meaning “light”, which is fitting for a kitty who brightens up your day. Lucy has been climbing the charts among cat lovers in California, likely because it has a friendly, human feel (you might think of the famous redhead from I Love Lucy or the character Lucy from Peanuts). For a curious cat that’s always illuminating your life with antics, Lucy is a purr-fect match.
- Callie – A popular pick especially for tri-colored cats, Callie is often chosen for calico kitties (it’s even a play on the word Calico). It also playfully nods to Cali – as in California – making it extra suitable for a Golden State cat. Callie has a cheerful ring to it and has become a favorite for cats with patchwork fur or colorful personalities. This name says “I’m a California girl” in the feline world.
- Nala – Nala pounced into popularity thanks to Disney’s The Lion King, and it remains a top choice for female cats in California. In the film, Nala is a brave and loving lioness – traits any cat owner would admire in their pet. Many Californians give their kitten this name as a nod to that adventurous, royal character. Nala is a great fit for a strong-willed or regal kitty (whether she’s queen of your home or just the couch!). It’s exotic yet easy to say, which helps keep it high on the name charts.
- Kitty – Sometimes simple is best! Believe it or not, Kitty is still one of the most popular cat names in California. It’s a straightforward, classic choice – essentially calling a cat… well, cat. Many people use it as a cute nickname that ends up sticking. In fact, “Kitty” was recently reported as the most common cat name in San Diego County, proving that this no-frills favorite isn’t going away anytime soon. Kitty is perfect for owners who want something easy and traditional – it’s friendly, unpretentious, and undeniably cat-like.
- Willow – Inspired by nature, Willow has a soft and gentle vibe. The willow tree is known for its grace and flexibility, and cat owners who choose this name often see those qualities in their pets. Willow has been rising in popularity, possibly because it sounds calm and whimsical (you might recall a character named Willow from the Buffy series or other pop culture, giving it a modern edge too). This name fits a mild-mannered kitty or one with flowing, silky fur that brings to mind the draping branches of a willow tree.
- Cleo – Short for Cleopatra, Cleo is an Egyptian-inspired name that carries an air of royalty. Many California cat lovers are charmed by this name’s historical roots – Cleopatra was an Egyptian queen, and cats were highly revered in ancient Egypt. Despite its ancient origins, Cleo feels fresh and fun as a two-syllable name that’s easy to call out. It’s a great pick for a sleek black cat or a sassy queen bee of the household. Plus, it has a cute pop culture connection (remember Cleo the goldfish in Disney’s Pinocchio – small, but full of personality!). For a cat with big presence, Cleo is a little name with a lot of character.
- Daisy – Rounding out the top ten is Daisy, a name that’s as sunny and sweet as a California afternoon. Daisies are bright, happy flowers, and this name perfectly suits a playful or affectionate female cat with a bright personality. Many pet owners choose Daisy for its wholesome, girl-next-door charm. It’s popular across pets (dogs included), but it has a special spot among cats who bring joy to their owners’ lives. If your kitten makes you smile and reminds you of springtime, Daisy might just be the name that fits her best.
(Honorable mentions: Other female names that are trending in California include Chloe, Sophie, and Stella, which have been climbing in popularity too. But for now, the ten names above are leading the pack among California’s feline females.)
Top 10 Male Cat Names in California
Now for the boys! California’s top male cat names are a mix of timeless classics and pop culture favorites. From adventurous names inspired by movies to friendly human names, here are the ten most popular male cat names in the Golden State and what makes them awesome choices:
- Milo – Milo has raced to the #1 spot for male cats in many recent surveys, and California is no exception. This short, upbeat name gained fame from the adorable orange kitten in the movie Milo and Otis, and it continues to charm cat owners. Milo just sounds playful and sweet – perfect for a rambunctious little guy who’s always exploring. Easy to say and full of energy, Milo fits a fun-loving cat that keeps you on your toes.
- Oliver – A perennial favorite, Oliver remains one of the most popular male cat names in California. It’s a classic human name (think Oliver Twist or Oliver from the Disney cat movie Oliver & Company) that gives a cat a dignified, friendly identity. Oliver actually comes from the olive tree, symbolizing peace and fruitfulness. Many people love this name for boy cats because it’s charmingly old-fashioned yet never goes out of style. An Oliver might be an orange tabby (the Disney influence is strong!) or any cat that strikes you as a true gentleman.
- Leo – It’s no surprise this name roars onto the list – Leo literally means “lion,” and what better name for your little house lion? Short, strong, and easy to shout when your kitty is climbing the curtains, Leo is a hit among California pet parents. It’s also a nod to the Leo zodiac sign (fitting for cats with bold, king-of-the-jungle personalities). Whether your cat has a fluffy mane or just a mighty attitude, Leo is a mighty name for a fearless feline. This name has been holding steady near the top of charts thanks to its mix of simplicity and regal flair.
- Charlie – Charlie has that friendly, down-to-earth vibe that cat owners can’t resist. As a pet name, Charlie strikes a nice balance between playful and classic. Many California cats named Charlie are just the chill, sociable types – the kind of cat who will greet your guests or sit contentedly in your lap. It’s a unisex name in the human world, but for boy cats it’s especially popular, possibly because of famous Charlies (Chaplin, or the timeless Charlie Brown). All in all, Charlie is a warm, approachable name for the cat who’s more like a best buddy.
- Loki – Got a little troublemaker at home? Loki is an increasingly popular name, inspired by the Norse god of mischief (and the Marvel character). This name has a cool, edgy sound and has climbed in popularity particularly among younger pet owners and Marvel fans. In California, plenty of cat parents are naming their sly, smart kittens Loki – often after noticing a knack for sneaking around or playful “crimes” like knocking items off shelves. If your feline friend has a mischievous streak or a knack for outsmarting you, Loki might just be the ideal namesake. It’s unique, memorable, and just a bit devilish (in an adorable way).
- Max – Short for Maximilian or Maxwell, Max is a name that has topped pet name lists for years, and it holds strong in California. Why do people love it? It’s simple, strong, and suits just about any cat. The name Max comes from Latin Maximus, meaning “the greatest” – and indeed many owners would say their Max is the greatest cat in the world! This name is perfect for a confident male cat who rules the house. From tiny kittens (oh, the irony of a tiny Max being “the greatest”!) to hefty tomcats, Max just fits. It’s also easy for cats to learn and for anyone to say. You really can’t go wrong with this timeless choice.
- Simba – Another name straight out of The Lion King, Simba remains a beloved choice, especially for gold or orange male cats that resemble little lions. Simba means “lion” in Swahili, and the character Simba is the brave lion cub who grows up to be king. For many Californians, naming their kitten Simba is a way to celebrate a love of that film or to acknowledge their cat’s big-cat attitude. If your kitty pounces like a lion and has a heart of a king, Simba is a fitting (and super cute) name. It carries a sense of adventure and pride – perfect for the cat who’s destined to be the ruler of your household realm.
- Jack – A solid, classic name, Jack has a jaunty, adventurous spirit to it. It’s a popular name for boy cats in California, possibly because it’s friendly and easy, but also appears in lots of stories (think Jack and the Beanstalk, Captain Jack Sparrow, or Jack-Jack from The Incredibles). A cat named Jack might be a bit of a daredevil or simply the reliable buddy always by your side. The name doesn’t have a specific feline meaning, but it has a timeless quality that cat owners love. It’s a great choice if you want a no-fuss, strong name with a hint of playfulness for your male cat.
- Ollie – Ollie is often a nickname for Oliver, but it’s become a popular given name for cats on its own. In California, plenty of pet parents are opting for this cute, friendly-sounding name. Ollie has a youthful, cheerful vibe – it practically bounces off the tongue. This name might fit a cat who’s forever young at heart or one who’s particularly affectionate and cuddly. An Ollie is the cat that loves to play hide-and-seek or chase the feather toy with glee. If you find Oliver a bit too formal for your fur baby, Ollie is the perfect casual-cool alternative that still carries that lovable charm.
- Jasper – Jasper has a touch of vintage elegance and has been rising in popularity for male cats. It’s actually the name of a semi-precious gemstone, often reddish in color – a fun fact if you happen to have a ginger cat. Jasper as a cat name gives off an artsy, distinguished vibe (picture a wise old cat lounging in a San Francisco bookshop, perhaps?). Interestingly, in the very first Tom and Jerry cartoon, the mischievous grey cat (Tom) was originally named Jasper – so it has a bit of cartoon cat heritage! Most importantly, Californians love the name Jasper for its unique yet friendly sound. It’s ideal for a cat who is a true individual – quirky, clever, and a little bit sophisticated.
(Honorable mentions: Other male cat names on the rise in California include Buddy, Tiger, Oscar, and Felix. They haven’t quite cracked the top 10 in the latest counts but are beloved by many cat owners in the state. Don’t be surprised if you meet a few kittens with these names at the local cat café!)
Conclusion: Naming Trends in the Golden State
California’s top cat names show that pet owners here, as everywhere, gravitate toward names that carry meaning, charm, and a bit of personality. Whether inspired by pop culture (hello, Loki and Simba), nature (Luna’s moonlit appeal or Willow’s flora vibes), or just classic human names that make a pet truly part of the family, these choices reflect a blend of tradition and trendiness. It’s also clear that Californians aren’t afraid to have fun with pet names – from food-inspired nicknames to names invoking famous characters, the creativity is endless.
If you’re naming a cat in California (or anywhere else), you can take cues from these popular picks. But remember, the best cat name is one that feels right for you and your feline. Maybe you’ll go with a top trend like Luna or Milo, or perhaps a unique name that no one else on the block has. As long as it captures your kitty’s spirit and makes you happy to say every day, you’ve found the perfect name. Happy naming, and may you and your cat enjoy many years in the Golden State with a name that’s as special as they are!