10 Popular Cat Names in USA: Trending Picks for 2026

Choosing a name for your cat is an important step when bringing a new pet into your home. Knowing the most popular cat names in the USA can help you find inspiration and select a name that fits your cat’s personality.

Popular cat names often reflect trends, famous characters, and even your personal style. Exploring these name choices lets you see what other cat owners across the country are choosing for their pets.

1. Luna

Luna is the top cat name in the United States. Many cat owners choose Luna because it sounds gentle and lovely. The name is short and easy to say. You might notice that Luna is popular for both male and female cats. It has a soft tone that suits many different breeds and personalities.

2. Milo

You will see the name Milo show up on many lists of popular cat names in the USA. It is often chosen for male cats, but sometimes people use it for females too. The name is simple, easy to say, and has a friendly sound. Milo has gained attention from movies and TV, like the friendly cat from “The Adventures of Milo and Otis.” This can make the name feel familiar and comforting when you call your cat.

3. Oliver

Oliver is a strong choice if you want a name that feels classic and friendly. It is one of the most popular cat names in the USA and holds a steady spot on many lists every year. People like the name Oliver for many reasons. Some cat owners are inspired by movies like “Oliver and Company.” Others just like how it sounds.

4. Leo

Leo is a popular cat name across the United States. You often see it near the top of lists for both male and unisex cat names. Many owners choose Leo because it is short, easy to say, and sounds friendly.

5. Bella

Bella is a favorite name for cats across the United States. If you name your cat Bella, you are choosing one of the most popular options for pet owners. Many people pick this name because it sounds gentle and pleasant.

6. Charlie

Charlie is a name that works well for both male and female cats. It has a friendly and approachable sound, making it a favorite for many pet owners. You might find that Charlie suits a playful cat with a lot of energy. The name is also easy to say and remember, which makes it practical for everyday use.

7. Loki

Loki is a name that stands out for many cat owners. You may pick this name if you notice your cat is playful, clever, or a little mischievous. The name comes from Norse mythology, where Loki is a trickster god.

8. Max

Max is a name you will hear a lot when people talk about cats in the United States. It is short, easy to say, and works well for both male and female cats. Many cat owners like it because it feels friendly and simple.

9. Simba

You have probably seen the name Simba on many lists of popular cat names. Simba is inspired by the main character from Disney’s “The Lion King.” This name works well for cats with a playful or adventurous personality.

10. Lucy

Lucy is a gentle and classic name for cats in the United States. Many people choose it because it sounds friendly and easy to say. If you name your cat Lucy, you are picking a name that has appeared on many lists of popular cat names across the country. It can suit cats with many different personalities and appearances.

Trends in Cat Naming Across the USA

The way people name their cats often reflects traditions, popular culture, and even local trends. In the last few years, there have also been shifts toward unique, playful, and food-inspired names.

Regional Influences on Cat Names

• In the Northeast, classic and elegant names like Bella and Luna are often chosen. These names tend to reflect the area’s preference for simple but pretty choices.
• In Southern states, you might notice more whimsical names such as Daisy or Peanut. Rural areas sometimes see cats named after animals or local features, like Bear or Willow.
• On the West Coast, trendy names inspired by pop culture, food, or nature are popular. For instance, names like Provolone and Casserole have gained traction in recent lists of top cat names. Cities with a big tech presence, like Seattle or San Francisco, even have cats named Pixel or Jet.
• This regional variety in naming helps show the different values and tastes found across the USA.

The Influence of Pop Culture on Cat Names

Many cat owners find inspiration from movies, TV shows, and famous felines seen online. Certain films, shows, and internet cats have made some names much more common in the USA.

Impact of Movies and TV Shows

• Movies and TV can shape which cat names are popular each year. Characters like Simba from “The Lion King,” Nala, and even Loki from Marvel films have become common cat names because they are easy to remember and have strong personalities.
• Pop culture events often cause a spike in specific names. When a movie gets released, or a TV series becomes a hit, you might see many people naming their kittens after famous characters. 
• Some notable popular names from these sources in recent years include Luna, Milo, and Bella, all thanks to their appearances in popular media.

Celebrity Cats and Their Effect on Name Choices

• Famous internet cats can impact the names you choose for your pets as well. Cats like Grumpy Cat, Nala Cat, and Lil Bub have built up strong followings on social media, and their names often trend across pet communities.
• When celebrity cats go viral, their unique names quickly become part of everyday conversation. Many people decide to name their cat after a famous online pet as a way to celebrate those personalities. 
• The popularity of these names shows how internet trends can spread quickly and influence how you and others name your pets. This ongoing trend means that as more cats gain fame, you can expect to see their names climb the lists, too.

Frequently Asked Questions