Maybe you've just adopted a cat with a name you don’t love—like "Mr. Fluffy" or "Meowzilla." Or maybe your cat was a stray, and you want to give them a fresh start.
But here's the big question: Can you actually rename a cat? And will they ever respond to a new name?
Spoiler alert: Yes, you can—and here’s how to do it the right way.
Yes, they do!
Studies (including a famous 2019 Japanese study) have shown that cats can recognize their names—even when spoken by strangers. They respond to the sound pattern and associate it with rewards, attention, or food.
That means a name is more than just a label; it’s a learned signal.
And just like any signal, it can be changed—with the right approach.
There are many good reasons to rename a cat:
As long as the new name is used positively, changing it won’t confuse or harm the cat.
1. Pick a short, simple name.
Names with 1–2 syllables and soft vowels work best (e.g., “Luna,” “Milo,” “Zoe”).
2. Pair the name with good stuff.
Say the new name only in a happy, upbeat tone and follow it with:
3. Use it consistently—but not constantly.
Don’t call the name every 5 seconds. Use it during moments of connection (feeding, cuddling, play), not randomly.
4. Avoid negative associations.
Never use the name to scold your cat. If the name gets linked to punishment, your cat will ignore it.
5. Be patient.
Some cats learn their new name in days. Others take weeks. It depends on age, temperament, and training history.
Yes! Even senior cats can learn new names.
In fact, older cats may respond faster if they already associate name-calling with rewards.
Just remember: consistency is key, and tone matters more than volume.
Sometimes, it’s not about the name—it’s about the cat.
Cats are famously independent, and some are just less responsive. But don't worry—they’re likely still listening… they’re just choosing to ignore you!
Try calling them from a different room, or during feeding time. You might be surprised how quickly they turn up.
Cats are smarter than they let on. With the right approach, patience, and a few treats, you can teach your cat a brand new name—and they’ll come running (or at least slowly strolling) when they hear it.
Have you ever renamed a cat?
Tell us what name they had and what you changed it to in the comments!
But here's the big question: Can you actually rename a cat? And will they ever respond to a new name?
Spoiler alert: Yes, you can—and here’s how to do it the right way.
Do Cats Even Know Their Names?
Yes, they do!
Studies (including a famous 2019 Japanese study) have shown that cats can recognize their names—even when spoken by strangers. They respond to the sound pattern and associate it with rewards, attention, or food.
That means a name is more than just a label; it’s a learned signal.
And just like any signal, it can be changed—with the right approach.
Why You Might Want to Change a Cat’s Name
There are many good reasons to rename a cat:
- Rescue or shelter names that don’t fit
- A new name that better suits their personality
- Starting fresh after adoption
- Cultural or language preferences
As long as the new name is used positively, changing it won’t confuse or harm the cat.
How to Teach Your Cat a New Name (Step by Step)
1. Pick a short, simple name.
Names with 1–2 syllables and soft vowels work best (e.g., “Luna,” “Milo,” “Zoe”).
2. Pair the name with good stuff.
Say the new name only in a happy, upbeat tone and follow it with:
- Treats
- Pets
- Playtime
3. Use it consistently—but not constantly.
Don’t call the name every 5 seconds. Use it during moments of connection (feeding, cuddling, play), not randomly.
4. Avoid negative associations.
Never use the name to scold your cat. If the name gets linked to punishment, your cat will ignore it.
5. Be patient.
Some cats learn their new name in days. Others take weeks. It depends on age, temperament, and training history.
Can Older Cats Learn a New Name?
Yes! Even senior cats can learn new names.
In fact, older cats may respond faster if they already associate name-calling with rewards.
Just remember: consistency is key, and tone matters more than volume.
What If My Cat Still Ignores Me?
Sometimes, it’s not about the name—it’s about the cat.
Cats are famously independent, and some are just less responsive. But don't worry—they’re likely still listening… they’re just choosing to ignore you!
Try calling them from a different room, or during feeding time. You might be surprised how quickly they turn up.
Conclusion: Yes, You Can Rename a Cat
Cats are smarter than they let on. With the right approach, patience, and a few treats, you can teach your cat a brand new name—and they’ll come running (or at least slowly strolling) when they hear it.
Have you ever renamed a cat?
Tell us what name they had and what you changed it to in the comments!