The most popular cat names in the UK
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Whether you're welcoming a mischievous kitten into your family, a brave rescue… or simply curious to see if your feline friend's name made the list, we've rounded up some of the UK's most popular cat names for 2026.
From timeless classics to names inspired by films, mythology and nature, one thing is clear: cat parents are choosing names with just as much personality as their cats.
The UK's top cat names for 2026
Based on recent UK pet naming trends, these are some of the names proving most popular this year:
- Luna
- Bella
- Milo
- Loki
- Willow
- Nala
- Simba
- Poppy
- Daisy
- Leo
- Oreo
- Coco
- Rosie
- Jasper
- Teddy
- Lola
- Tilly
- Gizmo
- Binx
- Shadow
Why is Luna still number one?
Luna has held onto the top spot for another year, and it's easy to see why.
Meaning "moon" in Latin, Luna suits everything from elegant long-haired cats to tiny black kittens who zoom around the house at 3am. It's short, easy for cats to recognise and has a magical feel that cat lovers seem to adore.
Human names continue to grow in popularity
One of the biggest trends we've noticed is that more cats are being given traditionally human names.
Think:
- Teddy
- Jasper
- Bella
- Rosie
- Leo
- Lola
Perhaps it's because, for many of us, cats really are family. Calling them by a human name somehow makes them feel even more like one of the household.
Pop culture is still inspiring owners
Some familiar favourites continue to dominate thanks to TV, films and books.
- Loki – perfect for cheeky troublemakers.
- Nala and Simba – loved by Disney fans.
- Binx – made famous by Hocus Pocus.
- Oreo – ideal for black and white cats.
It's amazing how a favourite character can become the perfect inspiration for a new furry family member.
Nature inspired names are everywhere
Soft, cosy names inspired by nature are becoming increasingly popular too.
Some favourites include:
- Willow
- Daisy
- Poppy
- Shadow
These names feel gentle, timeless and suit cats of almost any personality.
Choosing the perfect name
If you're still trying to decide on a name for your new cat, don't rush it.
Spend a few days getting to know their personality.
Are they:
- Brave or cautious?
- Playful or sleepy?
- Tiny but fearless?
- Quiet and elegant?
- Completely obsessed with food
Sometimes the perfect name doesn't appear until you've lived together for a week.
Our personal favourite? Hazelnut!
We're slightly biased here at the cat lovers club...
Our chief product tester (and professional box inspector), Hazelnut, may not feature in the UK's top 20, but she'll always be number one in our hearts.
Her name perfectly suits her warm tortoiseshell colours… and somehow manages to match her sweet personality and occasional moments of complete chaos.