These are the Most Popular Cat Names for 2026

Pretty soft siamese cat wears heart-shaped sunglasses surrounded by sparkly lights

Choosing the perfect name for your new kitten or cat is a big deal—after all, it’s a name you’ll be saying (and singing) for years to come. Whether you’re looking for something timeless, trendy, or totally unique, the folks at Chewy have crunched the numbers and rounded up the most popular cat names of 2026, based on their pet profiles.  

From well-loved classics to names on the rise, these picks reflect pop culture, personality traits, and even food trends. 


These beloved names have captured the hearts of Chewy cat parents nationwide. They’re popular for a reason—short, sweet, and full of charm. 

  1. Luna 
  2. Milo 
  3. Oliver 
  4. Bella 
  5. Leo 
  6. Charlie 
  7. Lucy 
  8. Loki 
  9. Shadow 
  10. Max 

Trendiest Cat Names of 2026


These names have grown most in popularity over the past year, thanks to pop culture, fantasy fandoms, and creative flair. 

  1. Barkley 
  2. Andarna 
  3. Charlotte 
  4. Elphie 
  5. Maomao 
  6. Glinda 
  7. Ming 
  8. Shakira 
  9. Fia 
  10. Fable 

Wondering what’s behind some of 2026’s rising names? These naming trends are making waves. 

Thanks to the buzz around the “Wicked” film release, names like Elphie and Glinda have climbed the charts. 

  • Elphie (+231%) 
  • Glinda (+175%) 

Music-Inspired Names 

From icons like Shakira to legends like Mick Jagger, music stars are influencing cat name choices more than ever. 

  • Shakira (+147%) 
  • Pink (+123%) 
  • Jagger (+42%) 

Nature-Inspired Names 

Floral and earthy names like Daisy and Thistle are blossoming in popularity. 

  • Daisy (+109%) 
  • Thistle (+92%) 
  • Willow (+74%) 

Fantasy-Inspired Cat Names 

Epic names like Andarna, Samwise, and Toothless are perfect for cats with larger-than-life personalities. 

  • Andarna (+400%) 
  • Fae (+100%) 
  • Samwise (+91%) 
  • Toothless (+36%) 

Food-Inspired Cat Names  

Playful picks like Parmesan, Mustard, and Cinnamon are as sweet and spicy as your new feline friend. 

  • Parmesan (+140%) 
  • Mustard (+124%) 
  • Pepper (+97%) 
  • Onion (+92%) 
  • Cinnamon (+87%) 

Your cat’s name says a lot about them—and about you. Whether you go for a perennial favorite like Luna or venture into trendier territory with a name like Fable or Glinda, the best cat name is the one that feels just right. Have fun choosing, and enjoy getting to know your new feline family member! 


Photo Credit: CreativeAngela / Shutterstock.com