140+ Cat Names from Movies: The Ultimate Guide for Film Buffs

Combine nostalgia and charm in a name that reflects your pet’s playful personality.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach
Created on

Choosing the perfect name for your new feline companion is an important and exciting task. For film lovers, naming your cat after a famous movie character, scene-stealing feline, or even an obscure cinematic reference can make for a meaningful and memorable moniker. Whether your inspiration comes from classic Disney animations, blockbuster franchises, or quirky indie flicks, this guide covers over 140 movie-inspired cat names to suit every personality and aesthetic.

Cat Names Inspired by Movie Cats

Some of the most famous and beloved cats have graced the silver screen, captivating audiences with their charisma, wit, and sometimes mischief. These feline stars make exceptional namesakes, offering a blend of nostalgia and character for your own pet. Here are just some iconic movie cats and their unique names:

  • Mr. Bigglesworth – The hairless cat from the “Austin Powers” franchise.
  • Binx – The spellbound black cat from “Hocus Pocus.”
  • Bagheera – The wise black panther from Disney’s “The Jungle Book.”
  • Duchess – The elegant lead from “The Aristocats.”
  • Thomas O’Malley – The smooth-talking alley cat in “The Aristocats.”
  • Garfield – The lovable lasagna-eating cat featured in both cartoons and film adaptations.
  • Salem – The witty, talking cat from “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” film and TV adaptations.
  • Snowbell – The family cat in the “Stuart Little” movies.
  • Church – The eerie feline of Stephen King’s “Pet Sematary.”
  • Goose – The unexpected Flerken (aka cat) in “Captain Marvel.”
  • Clarence – The cross-eyed lion from the classic “Clarence the Cross-Eyed Lion.”

Whether you prefer beloved big screen felines or are in search of a cat name with an edge, these have all the cinematic personality you could wish for.

Popular Movie Cat Names from Rover Users

With years of cat-naming data, Rover has identified some names that are consistently favored by both movie fans and pet parents. Here are 20 of the most popular choices, each paired with its memorable movie or character association:

  • Luna – As in Luna Lovegood from the “Harry Potter” movies.
  • Oliver – From “Oliver!” and “Oliver & Company.”
  • Lily – Inspired by Lily Potter from the “Harry Potter” series.
  • Kitty – Kitty Softpaws from “Puss in Boots” or Kitty Bell from “Sailor Moon.”
  • Charlie – Charlie Chaplin or Charlie Brown, both with animated adaptations.
  • Bella – Bella Swan of the “Twilight” series.
  • Lucy – Lucy Pevensie from “The Chronicles of Narnia.”
  • Max – Mad Max from “Fury Road” (and the broader franchise).
  • Leo – The iconic MGM Lion.
  • Jack – As in Jack Skellington from “Nightmare Before Christmas.”
  • Chloe – Chloe Beale from “Pitch Perfect.”
  • Milo – From “The Adventures of Milo & Otis.”
  • Cali / Callie – Callie Khouri, Oscar-winning writer of “Thelma & Louise.”
  • Zoe / Zoey – Actress Zoé Félix or various cinematic characters.
  • Sophie – Sofie Fatale from “Kill Bill.”
  • Simba – The lion prince from Disney’s “The Lion King.”
  • Nala – Simba’s spirited lioness friend.
  • Cat – A nod to Cat Stevens, music legend and composer for several soundtracks.
  • Stella – Stella Bonasera from “Cowboy Bebop.”

These names connect your pet to cinema’s most unforgettable moments and personalities.

Disney Cat Names

Disney movies, spanning decades and genres, are particularly fertile ground for cat name inspiration. Both the classic animated features and recent blockbuster additions to the Disney canon offer endearing, instantly recognizable names. Here are some Disney-inspired ideas for your furry friend:

  • Duchess – The graceful mother cat from “The Aristocats.”
  • Marie – The sweet white kitten from “The Aristocats.”
  • Simba – The energetic lion cub from “The Lion King.”
  • Nala – Simba’s courageous best friend.
  • Toulouse – The artistic kitten in “The Aristocats.”
  • Berlioz – The musical kitten from “The Aristocats.”
  • Figaro – The adorable pet kitten in “Pinocchio.”
  • Lucifer – The antagonistic cat in “Cinderella.”
  • Rajah – Princess Jasmine’s loyal tiger in “Aladdin.”
  • Bagheera – The sharp-witted panther in “The Jungle Book.”
  • Oliver – The lovable orange kitten from “Oliver & Company.”
  • Mochi – Hiro’s snuggly cat in “Big Hero 6.”

Other notable Disney options include Sox (Lightyear), Bambi, Lightning, and even creative Star Wars names for feline fans of the galaxy far, far away.

More Cat Names from Movie Characters

For film buffs who want a name that goes beyond classic cat characters, the world of cinema is teeming with possibilities. From action heroes to memorable villains, here are additional ideas, spanning decades of movie magic:

  • Ripley – After the intrepid lead of the “Alien” franchise.
  • Leia – Princess Leia from “Star Wars.”
  • Bond – As in James Bond, MI6’s finest.
  • Frodo – The brave hobbit from “The Lord of the Rings.”
  • Hermione – The brilliant witch from the “Harry Potter” series.
  • Gatsby – Drawing inspiration from “The Great Gatsby.”
  • Gollum – The ring-obsessed character from “The Lord of the Rings.”
  • Elsa – The magical queen from “Frozen.”
  • Pennywise – The infamous clown from “It.”
  • Neo – The chosen one from “The Matrix.”
  • Hannibal – The chilling intellect of “The Silence of the Lambs.”
  • Yoda – The wise Jedi Master of “Star Wars.”
  • Dobby – The loyal servant elf in “Harry Potter.”
  • Rocky – The underdog boxing hero.
  • Indy – Short for Indiana Jones, the dashing archaeologist.

These names are as bold and unique as the cats destined to bear them, and they’re sure to be conversation starters at your next movie night.

Unique and Obscure Movie Cat Names

Some cat parents crave a name few others share. If you want to avoid the most common picks and highlight your film credentials, consider these under-the-radar but captivating cat names:

  • Miss Norris – The caretaker’s cat in “Harry Potter.”
  • Targo – The enormous tabby in “Harry Potter.”
  • Jonesy – The orange tomcat from “Alien.”
  • Sassy – The Himalayan heroine from “Homeward Bound.”
  • Tonto – The expressive feline in “Harry and Tonto.”
  • Mr. Jinx – Pampered Persian from “Meet the Parents.”
  • Buttercup – Primrose’s cat in “The Hunger Games.”
  • Meowthra – The giant cat in “The LEGO Ninjago Movie.”
  • Solomon – The wise feline from “Cat’s Eye.”
  • General – Lead cat in Stephen King’s “Cat’s Eye.”

Popular Movie Cat Names Through the Decades

Cinema’s long history means some names never go out of style. From the sophisticated Duchess to the lion-like Simba, here are movie cat names that have endured through the years:

  • Duchess – Still charming cat lovers since “The Aristocats.”
  • Oliver – From both classic literature and Disney animation.
  • Simba and Nala – Supreme popularity for over two decades thanks to “The Lion King.”
  • Luna – A modern favorite, inspired by magical movies across genres.
  • Goose – With a spike in popularity after “Captain Marvel.”

Each name has proven resilience, making them timeless, trusted picks for pet parents who want a name that feels both distinctive and familiar.

Movie Cat Names from Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and Action Genres

Blockbuster films across fantasy, sci-fi, and action genres are sources of bold and creative names. Both feline and human characters provide plenty of inspiration:

Movie GenreCat Name Ideas
FantasyLuna, Hermione, Frodo, Sassy, Buttercup
Sci-FiJonesy, Ripley, Neo, Yoda, Goose, Leia
ActionBond, Max, Rocky, Indy, Catwoman
Horror/ThrillerPennywise, Hannibal, Church, Clarice
AnimatedGarfield, Figaro, Marie, Mochi, Oliver, Duchess, Nala, Simba

Whether your tastes run to the magical, the terrifying, or the hilariously animated, there’s a name here that reflects your favorite film world.

Creative Cat Name Pairings from Movies

For those adopting sibling cats, or if you simply love the idea of themed pairs, try these famous duos from the cinema world:

  • Simba & Nala – From “The Lion King.”
  • Marie & Toulouse – Siblings from “The Aristocats.”
  • Oliver & Dodger – Dynamic duo in “Oliver & Company.”
  • Lilo & Stitch – For cats with animated energy and loyalty.
  • Holly & Dorian – Nods to “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and “Dorian Gray.”
  • Harry & Hermione – The perfect pair for any Potterhead household.

Double the cats, double the cinematic references!

Tips for Choosing the Best Movie-Inspired Cat Name

  • Reflect on your favorite films. Choose a movie that you’ll always love, so your pet’s name feels timeless to you.
  • Consider your cat’s look and personality. Names like “Simba” or “Garfield” work particularly well for orange cats, while “Salem” or “Binx” suit black cats.
  • Test the name aloud. Make sure the name rolls off the tongue and doesn’t sound too much like common commands.
  • Embrace uniqueness—or tradition. Go as classic or as offbeat as you like! The best name is one that feels special in your family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are some unique cat names from movies for black cats?

Consider “Binx” (from “Hocus Pocus”), “Salem” (“Sabrina the Teenage Witch”), or “Bagheera” (“The Jungle Book”). All are cinematic and suit black cats perfectly.

Which Disney movie names are most popular for cats?

The most popular Disney cat names include “Simba,” “Nala,” “Duchess,” “Marie,” and “Figaro.” These names have lasting appeal for cat owners and are strongly associated with Disney’s classic animated films.

Are there good movie cat names for pairs of cats?

Yes! “Simba & Nala,” “Marie & Toulouse,” and “Oliver & Dodger” are all fantastic duo names for sibling or friend cats adopted together.

Do cat names from movies work for both boy and girl cats?

Absolutely. Many movie-inspired names are gender-neutral or have male and female equivalents, like “Max” and “Milo,” or “Luna” and “Lucy.” Use your cat’s personality as a guide.

What about naming my cat after a villain or anti-hero?

Naming your cat after a famous film villain, like “Hannibal,” “Pennywise,” or “Cruella,” can be a fun way to showcase your sense of humor and your love for darker cinematic characters.

Get Inspired – Find the Perfect Movie Cat Name!

Whether you’re welcoming a playful kitten, a wise senior, or a mysterious rescue, giving your cat a movie-inspired name brings an extra layer of fun and story to your new companion’s life. Take inspiration from this extensive list and let your favorite blockbusters, beloved classics, or cult favorites guide you to the ideal name for your newest four-legged movie star.

Sneha Tete
Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete