In my attempt to collect all of the coolest Japanese cat names in one place, I have compiled a list of 100 such names (including their meanings) that can be used for males, females, or gender-neutral buddies -but also covering both popular as well less know ones – and are further divided into separate categories: most common and distinct nature-inspired black & white foodie things to call your kitties… you name it! Now, the big question is Japanese cat names!
Popular Japanese Cat Names
Choosing a popular name ensures your cat’s name is familiar and stylish. Many of these names are inspired by traditional Japanese culture, anime, and famous cats in Japan.
- Sakura (桜) – Cherry blossom
- Tora (虎) – Tiger
- Mochi (もち) – A sweet rice cake
- Neko (猫) – Cat (straightforward, yet classic)
- Yuki (雪) – Snow
- Hana (花) – Flower
- Kuro (黒) – Black
- Momo (桃) – Peach
- Sora (空) – Sky
Female Japanese Cat Names
Are you looking for a feminine name with soft sounds and beautiful meanings? Here are some popular female Japanese cat names that emphasize elegance and grace.
- Aiko (愛子) – Little love or beloved child
- Akira (明) – Bright or clear
- Kaori (香織) – Fragrance
- Emi (恵美) – Blessed beauty
- Hikari (光) – Light
- Kira (綺羅) – Sparkle
- Miyu (美優) – Beautiful gentleness
- Rin (凛) – Dignified
- Yuna (優奈) – Gentle and graceful
- Haruka (遥) – Distant, far-reaching
Male Japanese Cat Names
If you’re searching for a strong and meaningful name for your male cat, these Japanese names reflect strength, loyalty, and power.
- Ryu (竜) – Dragon
- Taro (太郎) – First-born son
- Jiro (次郎) – Second-born son
- Kenji (賢治) – Wise and second-born
- Haruto (陽翔) – Flying sun
- Hiroshi (宏) – Generous
- Takumi (匠) – Artisan or craftsman
- Daiki (大輝) – Great radiance or large tree
- Shiro (志郎) – Fourth-born son
- Yamato (大和) – Harmony or ancient Japan
Japanese Black Cat Names
Black cats often symbolize mystery and magic in many cultures, and in Japan, they are usually associated with good luck. Here are some perfect names for black cats.
- Kuro (黒) – Black
- Yami (闇) – Darkness
- Anko (あんこ) – A sweet red bean paste, dark in color
- Hoshi (星) – Star (shining in the darkness)
- Kage (影) – Shadow
- Sumire (菫) – Violet (a dark flower)
- Raven – Directly from the bird, known for its black feathers
- Kuroneko (黒猫) – Black cat
- Mei (冥) – Darkness or shadowy
- Kurai (暗い) – Dark or gloomy
Nature-Inspired Japanese Cat Names
Nature provides some of the most beautiful and peaceful name inspirations. These nature-inspired Japanese cat names reflect the beauty of the outdoors.
- Kumo (雲) – Cloud
- Tsuchi (土) – Earth
- Kawa (川) – River
- Rin (林) – Forest
- Yuki (雪) – Snow
- Taiyo (太陽) – Sun
- Umi (海) – Sea
- Hayate (颯) – Swift wind
Unique Japanese Cat Names
- Read: Halloween Cat Names
Looking for something out of the ordinary? These unique Japanese cat names will make your cat stand out with flair and individuality.
- Chisana (小さな) – Tiny
- Ame (雨) – Rain
- Zuki (月) – Moon
- Kitsune (狐) – Fox (associated with intelligence and cunning)
- Isamu (勇) – Brave
- Zen (禅) – Meditation or contemplation
- Fuji (富士) – Refers to Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest mountain
- Kozue (梢) – Tree branches
- Takara (宝) – Treasure
- Midori (緑) – Green
Japanese Names for White Cats
White cats often symbolize purity and elegance. These names are great choices for cats with snowy, light-colored fur.
- Shiro (白) – White
- Yuki (雪) – Snow
- Gin (銀) – Silver
- Miyuki (美雪) – Beautiful snow
- Tsubaki (椿) – Camellia (a white flowering plant)
- Shizuka (静) – Quiet or calm
- Fuyu (冬) – Winter
- Mashiro (真白) – Pure white
- Kohaku (琥珀) – Amber
- Hotaru (蛍) – Firefly
Japanese Cat Names Inspired by Foods
Read: Grey Cat Names
Japan has a rich culinary culture, and many of these food-inspired Japanese cat names are playful and charming.
- Mochi (もち) – Sweet rice cake
- Sushi (寿司) – The famous Japanese dish
- Tempura (天ぷら) – A popular dish of battered and fried seafood or vegetables
- Udon (うどん) – Thick wheat noodles
- Miso (味噌) – A fermented soybean paste used in soups
- Sake (酒) – Japanese rice wine
- Onigiri (おにぎり) – Rice ball
- Ramen (ラーメン) – Noodles in broth
- Taiyaki (たい焼き) – Fish-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste
- Gyoza (餃子) – Japanese dumpling
Japanese Cat Names Based on Personality
Your cat’s personality can be an excellent source of inspiration when choosing a name. Here are some names that match various traits.
- Genki (元気) – Energetic
- Yume (夢) – Dream, of a cat that loves to sleep
- Kawaii (かわいい) – Cute
- Sasuke (サスケ) – Ninja or one who is clever
- Hikari (光) – Light, for a bright and cheerful cat
- Arata (新) – Fresh or new
- Chibi (ちび) – Tiny
- Baka (バカ) – Silly or fool
- Kiba (牙) – Fang, for a tough and feisty cat
- Osaka (大阪) – A vibrant and lively city in Japan, for an outgoing cat
Japanese Mythology-Inspired Cat Names
Japan has a rich mythology, and many names from ancient stories make great names for your cat.
- Amaterasu (天照) – Sun goddess in Shinto religion
- Susanoo (須佐之男) – Storm god
- Raijin (雷神) – God of thunder
- Fujin (風神) – God of wind
- Inari (稲荷) – Deity of rice, fertility, and prosperity, often associated with foxes
- Oni (鬼) – A mythical ogre or demon
- Tengu (天狗) – A mythological bird creature known for its powerful abilities
- Kaguya (かぐや姫) – Princess from “The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter”
- Hachiman (八幡) – God of war and archery
- Ryujin (龍神) – Dragon god of the sea
So if you have decided to name your cat and want it a little bit funnier, or simply with a more memorable way of celebrating itself as being a new part of family member. There are SO many options when it comes to Japanese cat names (solid numbers in the hundreds) that you might be a bit overwhelmed. No matter whether your cat is white, black, or has a fire personality; these names tell their unique natures.
Also, choose a name that suits your cat — for example, its age, personality, and behavior. A good name can deepen that connection and create some nostalgic memories of better or worse times you two share.