Naming a new pet can be a challenge. Finding something that feels different from the usual names everyone gives their pets while at the same time feeling representative of your little furry friend is harder than it looks. But if you want something unique that you definitely don't hear every day, consider a Japanese cat name. Japanese cat names are unique and often have beautiful meanings to them. Plus, felines are revered in Japan as they are thought to bring good luck and fortune.

We’ve compiled a list of 75 Japanese cat names and organized them by gender, so you can easily find Japanese cat names for female cats and male cats. Take a look through these Japanese cat names and see if you find one that’s perfect for your new cat:

Popular Japanese Cat Names

In the United States, certain cat names are very popular. You will find many kitties named Max, Tiger, Kitty, and Lucy. The same phenomenon is true in Japan. Here are the most common Japanese cat names based on a survey conducted by the Japanese website Iris Pet:

• Azuki (sweet red beans)
• Chibi (tiny)
• Chobi (small)
• Fuku (lucky)
• Hana (flower)
• Haru (spring)
• Hime (princess)
• Kai (ocean)
• Koko (cocoa)
• Maru (circle)
• Mei (beautiful)
• Mikan (mandarin orange)
  
• Mike (tortoiseshell)
• Miruku (milk)
  
• Moka (mocha)
• Momo (peach)
• Sakura (cherry blossom)
• Sora (sky)
• Tora (tiger)
• Yuki (snow)

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Tips for Choosing Japanese Cat Names

If you long to choose a Japanese name for your cat, the choices are nearly endless. It doesn’t matter if you just like the way a Japanese cat name sounds, or if you are more drawn to the name’s meaning.

You might find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer volume of Japanese names to choose from. To narrow it down, start by considering your cat’s gender, color, markings, and of course its unique personality. Most importantly, look for a name that you like the sound of and one that’s easy for you to pronounce.

Whether or not you find your new cat’s name on one of these lists, these ideas are sure to lead you on the path to the perfect Japanese cat name.

How to Name Your Cat

Female Japanese Cat Names 

If you have a female cat, these Japanese cat names are perfect for your sweet girl kitty. Choose a name meaning smiling child or something more whimsical, like one meaning butterfly.

• Aiko (beloved one, little love)
• Akira (bright and clear dawn)
• Cho (butterfly)
• Emiko (smiling child)
• Hayami (rare and unusual beauty)
• Kaiya (forgiveness)
• Kameko (tortoise-child, symbol for long life)
• Katsumi (victorious beauty)
• Mieko (beautiful blessing child)
• Mizuki (beautiful moon)
• Nyoko (gem; treasure)
• Sayuri (little lily)
• Shiori (bookmark; guide)
• Suki (beloved)
• Yasuko (peaceful child)

Male Japanese Cat Names 

Many of these male Japanese cat names pay homage to warriors, wisdom, and goodness. Opt for a name inspired by a shining price or a sweet moniker meaning happy boy.

• Akihiko (shining prince)
• Arakan (worthy one; hero)
• Daichi (great first son)
• Eichi (wisdom)
• Hiroki (abundant joy and strength)
• Hiroyuki (widespread happiness)
• Isao (honor; merit)
• Kenji (intelligent ruler)
• Kitaro (happy boy)
• Naoko (straight; honest)
• Ryuji (dragon man)
• Sin'ichi (faithful first-born son)
• Taishiro (ambitious boy)
• Takeo (warrior)
• Toshiko (alert and valued child)

Japanese Cat Names Based on Color

Pay homage to your cat’s beautiful hue by choosing the Japanese word for the color of your cat's coat. Options range from red to gold to white.

• Aka (red)
• Akaganeiro (copper)
• Akane (brilliant red)
• Ao (blue)
• Chairo (brown)
• Giniro (silver)
• Haiiro (gray)
• Kiiro (yellow)
• Kiniro (gold)
• Kuro (black)
• Orenjiiro (orange)
• Shiro (white)

Japanese Cat Names Inspired by Foods

Do you have a favorite Japanese food or ingredient? It could be the perfect name for your next cat. Consider some of these options, including culinary favorites like matcha and sushi.

• Dashi
• Matcha
• Mirin
• Miso
• Mochi
• Oden
• Sashimi
• Shoyu
• Soba
• Sukiyaki
• Sushi
• Udon
• Unagi

For more cat name ideas, check out:

• 15 Unique Female Cat Names
• 55 Orange Girl Cat Names
• 65 Irish Cat Names