20 Best Names For Black Cats

Black cats have long been misunderstood and shrouded in superstition. But as any cat lover knows, they’re just as loving, charming, and full of personality as any other shade of cat. 

So, if you’ve just welcomed a kitty into your home, give them a name that shows the world how awesome they truly are.

Here are the 20 best black cat names to help you find some inspiration.

1. Blackjack

If you’re feeling lucky to have found your new friend, Blackjack is a fun unisex name for a black kitty. And maybe your Blackjack will bring you more luck with a winning hand. 

Black Jack was also the name of one of the earliest cats that made the British Museum in London their home. His favorite location was perched on a desk in the museum’s Reading Room.

2. Cosmo

Does your kitty’s fur remind you of the night sky? If so, you might consider Cosmo as an interesting choice of name for your black cat. 

The English word “cosmos” comes from the ancient Greek “kosmos,” and has evolved to mean an orderly, harmonious universe. So, if your black kitty brings a sense of harmony to your life, this would make a great choice. Other celestial-inspired names for black cats to consider: Calliope, Orion, Nebula, Astro, and Comet.

3. Elphaba

Do you love the hit Broadway show (and now hit movie) Wicked? Then name your black kitty after the misunderstood heroine, Elphaba, aka the Wicked Witch of the West. Elphaba might be a bit of a tongue twister for a cat, so try shortening this name to “Elfie.”

4. Esmeralda

For a black cat who moves with grace, Esmeralda is the perfect name. Taken from the heroine in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, this name suggests a spirit that cannot be broken.

Like black cats, Esmeralda is often misunderstood. But if the classic Disney film taught the world anything, it’s to never judge others by their appearance — and that it’s okay to proudly dance (or pounce) in the shadows.

5. Jett

Jett is a cool unisex name for a female or male black cat. It is a twist on the term “jet black,” a deep shade of black inspired by the gemstone jet (a type of coal). It’s also a nod to raven-haired rockstar, Joan Jett, making it a great choice for a badass girliewith a rebellious spirit.

6. Jiji

The magical world of Kiki’s Delivery Service introduced Jiji, a black cat with undeniable charm. Jiji supports Kiki through thick and thin, just like your own black cat can always cheer you up on a bad day. 

This name fits a black cat who’s witty, loyal, and a bit of a chatterbox. Not to mention, it’ll add a touch of magic to your life every time you call their name.

7. Kuro

Japanese for the color black, Kuro, is a simple name for a sleek and refined black cat. It also means elegance and sophistication. 

So, if you’ve got a cool cat on your hands, Kuro would be an excellent choice. Sometimes, less is more — they don’t need a fancy name to steal the show.

8. Licorice

Some love it, some don’t — licorice is definitely an acquired taste. But like this candy, it takes a special kind of person to truly appreciate the charm of black cats. 

This playful and quirky name is perfect for a black cat who stands out from the crowd and isn’t afraid to be themselves. Because deep down, they know those who love them, love them for who they are.

9. Morticia

Morticia is a fun choice for a black girl cat and a playful nod to The Addams Family matriarch.  While Morticia might appear witchy at first glance, she’s actually an incredibly loyal wife and loving mother.

Under all that black fur, you’ll find a warm and affectionate cat. Wednesday is another excellent name for a black cat who is a bit quirky, mischievous, and independent.

10. Nyx

Nyx is a unique choice for a black kitty with a penchant for chaos. Why? Because this Greek goddess is literally born from Chaos. 

She’s said to be the only goddess that the almighty Zeus ever feared. So, if you’ve got a fierce little kitty ruling your home, Nyx would be the right choice. This name would work equally well for a boy black cat.

11. Onyx

While onyx stones come in a few different colors, black onyx is the variety most often used in expensive jewelry. A stone that is both beautiful and strong, Onyx would be a great name for a black cat who shares the same qualities. 

Some believe that black onyx has powers of protection. So, if you have an outdoor kitty who likes to prowl around the yard, naming them Onyx might offer a little extra protection. 

Of course, for any outdoor cat, regardless of their name, having a cat insurance plan in place can keep them protected in the event of an unexpected emergency or illness. Find out how Pumpkin pet insurance plans can cover eligible vet bills in the future.

12. Ozzy

If you’re looking for a name that captures the rebellious spirit of your black cat, Ozzy is a strong contender. Inspired by the legendary rock musician Ozzy Osbourne, this name is electric, fun, and edgy.

A black cat named Ozzy is a wild and unpredictable force but always manages to cause just the right amount of mayhem.

13. Peppercorn

Small, dark, and a bit spicy, is that how you’d describe your cat? Well, consider the cute name Peppercorn, or simply Pepper. This tiny spice adds a punch to everything it touches. 

Your black kitten may be small, but they sure know how to spice things up and keep life interesting.

14. Poe

It doesn’t get much more goth than Edgar Allan Poe. For his contributions to American Gothic literature alone, Poe makes a great name for a black cat. 

Poe even wrote a short story called The Black Cat, which was characteristically macabre. Still, Poe is a very unique name for a black cat. It also works especially well for fans of the new-school Star Wars character Poe Dameron.

15. Sirius

Ever catch your black cat staring at you in the dark? Those glowing eyes pierced through the darkness. If so, the name Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky (and a beloved character from Harry Potter), is a good pick. Ironically, it’s also called the “Dog Star.” 

Ancient cultures linked this star with deep spiritual significance. So, it’s meant to be if you happen to have a black cat whose eyes seem to hold the secrets of the universe.

16. Soot

Is your black cat a little troublemaker, always leaving a trail of mess behind? Or are they more elusive, disappearing like a wisp of smoke? Either way, Soot is a name that perfectly captures their personality. 

Studio Ghibli’s fans, this name might also remind you of the adorable soot sprites that helped Chihiro find her way home in Spirited Away.

17. Sylvester

This classic name has a double dose of inspiration — the iconic cartoon cat Sylvester and the tough-guy actor Sylvester Stallone. If your black cat is a troublemaker and has a penchant for chasing birds, then Sylvester is a fitting choice, especially for a tuxedo cat. 

Or if your Sylvester is a fearless fighter who never backs down from a challenge, like the characters played by Stallone, this name will be a knockout.

18. T’Challa

This is a name quite literally fit for a king. Fans of Marvel’s Black Panther will recognize T’Challa as the name of the King of Wakanda (played by the late Chadwick Boseman). He is fiercely loyal to his family and his people. 

T’Challa is strong, brave, and confident, and would make a great name for a black cat who is king of your castle, or just a killer athlete.

19. Ursula

Ursula may be the villain in Disney’s The Little Mermaid, but she remains one of the most iconic and beloved Disney characters. After all, no one forced Ariel to give up her voice for a pair of legs to win over some guy.

With her signature inky black tentacles, Ursula would make a super name for a girl kitty who is highly intelligent, has a bit of attitude, and is a little bit sneaky.

20. Vanta

If your black cat’s fur is so dark and luxurious that it seems to defy the laws of physics, then Vanta might be the right name. Inspired by the pigment Vantablack — the “blackest black” — this name celebrates your cat’s amazing black coat. 

Vantablack absorbs up to 99.965% of visible light, and your black cat’s fur also shares some light-absorbing qualities. That’s why it’s nearly impossible to take a good photo of your black cat!

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