Choosing a name for your kitten can be a delightful experience, especially with all the quirky, creative options out there. While it’s fun to get imaginative, some cat names can cross into the realm of the outrageous, leaving you and your pet with more awkwardness than charm. Outrageous cat names might be funny in the moment, but they’re often impractical, embarrassing, or even insensitive. Here’s a look at some cat-naming pitfalls and examples of names that should be avoided.
Why Some Cat Names Are Better Left Unused
Cats have big personalities, and while it’s tempting to choose a name as quirky as they are, remember that you’ll use this name regularly. Outrageous names may amuse you for a while, but they can quickly become irritating or cumbersome. Here are a few common reasons certain names are best avoided:
- Offensive or Insensitive Names: While cats may not understand offensive names, other people will—and they’ll likely find these names in poor taste.
- Overly Long or Complex Names: A cat's name should be short and easy to call, especially when you’re trying to get their attention.
- Humorous Names That Don’t Age Well: What’s funny today might feel outdated or awkward tomorrow, making it a poor long-term choice.
- Human Names That Could Cause Confusion: Some human names may lead to awkwardness when friends or family share the same name.
- Brand or Product Names: Naming your cat after a product or brand can seem a little strange and impersonal.
Outrageous Cat Names to Avoid
To help you find a name that won’t lead to future regrets, here are examples of outrageous names across several categories. These names might be funny, shocking, or simply a little too much, and most are best avoided for a kitten.
Offensive or Inappropriate Names
- Lucifer
- Hades
- Diablo
- Creep
- Sinner
- Serial Killer
- Killer Claws
- Cannibal
- Satan
- Grim Reaper
Overly Long or Complex Names
- Sir Meowington the Third of Whiskerland
- Fluffernutter Von Wigglebottom
- Queen Sparkle Paw McSnuggleface
- Princess Purrington Tiddlywinks
- The Great Pawdini of Fur-topia
- Sir Purrs-a-Lot and Wiggles the Second
- Mewford Wiggins Fluffmaster the Brave
- Madame Purrs-a-Whisker von Fluff
- Doctor Clawmeister von Pawzington
- Captain Fluffy Whiskerson of Kittyshire
Joke or Gimmick Names That Don’t Age Well
- Catastrophe
- Clawdia (a pun name that’s easily overused)
- Hairball
- Fur-mageddon
- Flea-bag
- Tuna Breath
- Pawsitively Smelly
- Hot Mess
- Whisker-Wrecker
- Catnip Junkie
Food-Related Names That Go Overboard
- Cheeseball
- Kibble Breath
- Pickles and Mayo
- Pizza Face
- Nacho Supreme
- Fish Breath
- Tuna Tummy
- Casserole
- Tofu Terror
- Crabcake McSnack
Product and Brand Names
- Pepsi-Cola
- Mr. Clean
- Ikea
- Facebook
- Instagram
- Chevy
- Lysol
- Google
- Netflix
- Spam
Awkwardly Human Names
- Bob Ross (while funny, it’s also confusing if you meet an actual Bob)
- Beyoncé (celebrity names can be awkward in a pet context)
- Chad
- Bertha
- Clarence
- Karen (consider the current cultural meaning)
- Martha Stewart
- Uncle Joe
- Janice
- Mildred
Over-the-Top or Dark Themed Names
- Tombstone
- Death Wish
- Poison Paw
- Moth-Eater
- Grave Claws
- Doomkit
- Night Howler
- Scareclaw
- Bonecrush
- Fear Stalker
Pop Culture Names That Can Be Awkward
- Voldemort
- Hannibal (after Hannibal Lecter)
- Freddy Krueger
- Jabba the Hutt
- Terminator
- Darth Paws
- Jason Voorhees
- Pennywise
- Alien Facehugger
- Rambo
Names with Questionable Meanings or Odd Associations
- Dumpster Diver
- Skidmark
- Trash Kitty
- Sniffer
- Sloppy
- Spitball
- Grumbles
- Snarky
- The Whiner
- The Lurker
Mismatched or Ironic Names
- Mouse Slayer (ironic, but can become annoying)
- Vicious Fluffy
- Killer Whiskers
- Scaredy Cat
- Nervous Nelly
- Sweet Nothings
- Bitey
- Shredder
- Mr. Feline Fury
- Whine-Wine
Why Name Choice Matters for Cats
Giving a cat a name that’s easy, pleasant, and fitting not only makes things simpler for you, but it also helps with bonding and communication. Cats respond well to short, distinct names that are easy to recognize, so names like “Fluffy” or “Mittens” may be traditional but are often popular for a reason. A good name feels right over time and won’t cause you embarrassment when calling for your cat at the vet’s office or when introducing them to guests.
Rather than going for a name that might feel funny for a moment, think of options that will make you and others smile or feel warm in the long run. Keep it simple, creative, and appropriate—and your cat will thank you!