The Ultimate Guide to Names for Black Cats

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So, you’ve adopted a furry little void—congratulations! Whether they’re mysterious and magical or more chaotic than classy, one thing’s for sure: your black cat deserves a name as iconic as their fur coat. From elegant and old-fashioned to punny and pop culture-inspired, black cats inspire some of the best names out there. In this guide, we’ve rounded up hundreds of black cat name ideas to help you find the perfect fit—whether you’re naming a velvet-eared kitten, a mischievous rescue, or a dapper little house panther.

names for black cats

Human Names That Just Fit a Black Cat

Sometimes a timeless and chic human name is just what you need for those charismatic black cats that seem like they should star in their own biopic. Consider these options if your cat has serious main-character energy.

Good Names for Boy Black Cats

  • Sebastian
  • Felix
  • Jasper
  • Hugo
  • Dante
  • Shadow
  • Lucius

Good Names for Girl Black Cats

  • Luna
  • Ophelia
  • Elvira
  • Cleo
  • Moira
  • Wednesday
  • Morticia

Whether you’re naming a refined little gentleman or a mischievous femme fatale, human-inspired names add instant charm!

Famous Black Cats from TV, Movies, and Pop Culture

Why not name your cat after some of the most iconic black cats that have stolen the show over the years? These unisex or themed black cat name ideas are perfect for the pop-culture savvy pet lover.

  • Salem (Sabrina the Teenage Witch)
  • Binx (Hocus Pocus)
  • Jiji (Kiki’s Delivery Service)
  • Toothless (How to Train Your Dragon)
  • Felix (Felix the Cat)
  • Bagheera (The Jungle Book)

Pop-culture-inspired names are perfect for adding a touch of cinematic flair to your new feline friend.

black cat name ideas

Magical, Mysterious, and Mythical Names

Black cats have long been associated with magic and mystery, so it only makes sense to give them a name straight out of folklore or legend.

Unisex

  • Hecate
  • Merlin
  • Onyx
  • Raven
  • Hex
  • Obsidian
  • Midnight

For cats that look like they’ve arrived from another realm, a magical name highlights their enchanting presence.

Victorian, Gothic, and Old-Fashioned Charmers

Nothing captures a black cat’s mystique quite like an old-world name with Victorian or Gothic charm. These elegant choices suit cats that exude sophistication and mystery.

Female Black Cat Names

  • Agatha
  • Beatrix
  • Lavinia
  • Minerva

Male Black Cat Names

  • Edgar
  • Ambrose
  • Percival
  • Alistair

If your cat looks like they belong on the cover of a 19th-century mystery novel, this category is for you.

black kitten name ideas

Funny and Punny Black Cat Names

For cats who can’t stop knocking things off counters or zooming around the house, a funny or pun-filled name might just be perfect.

Unisex

  • Meowzart
  • Catrick Swayze
  • Furrdinand
  • Whispurr
  • Meowgic
  • Sir Scratchalot
  • Purrlock Holmes

Add some humor to your cat’s already entertaining personality with a name guaranteed to make people smile.

Cute and Sweet Black Kitten Names

Tiny black kittens deserve names as adorable as they are. These sweet, playful options are perfect for teeny floofs who look like midnight marshmallows.

Female

  • Cocoa
  • Trixie
  • Bean
  • Velvet

Male

  • Pepper
  • Inky
  • Oreo
  • Boo

Unisex

  • Licorice
  • Panda
  • Mocha
  • Stormy

These names are playful and precious, ideal for a little bundle of black fur.

Historical and Literary Black Cat Names

For the scholar or deep thinker in your feline family, consider a name inspired by history or literature.

Male

  • Poe
  • Nero
  • Byron
  • Socrates

Female

  • Cleopatra
  • Brontë
  • Isadora
  • Zelda

Perfect for cats who seem to embody a sense of wisdom or grace, these names are as timeless as the great works of history and literature.

names for black cats

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Black Cat Name

Finding the right name can feel like a challenge, but here are a few quick tips to help you make the best choice:

  • Say it out loud to make sure it rolls off the tongue easily.
  • Choose a name that has a personal meaning to you. This could be funny, literary, mystical, or sentimental
  • Consider your cat’s personality. Are they mischievous, sophisticated, or playful?
  • Don’t rush. Try out a few names and see which one your cat responds to best.

A Name as Unique as Your Cat

At the end of the day, your black cat’s name should feel like them—whether it’s mysterious, adorable, dramatic, or delightfully absurd. From Edgar to Elvira, Binx to Meowgic, there’s no wrong answer (unless it’s “Dog,” and even then… maybe). Try a few out loud, see what sticks, and trust your gut. After all, when your cat inevitably ignores you, at least you’ll have fun calling their name!

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