40 Best Names For Calico Cats

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11 min read
11 min read

Updated - Nov 25th, 2024

Key Points

  • Calico cats aren’t a specific cat breed; rather, calico refers to the colors of the fur.
  • To be a true calico, your cat should be tri-colored with a mix of black, white, brown, or orange.
  • These kitties are considered lucky in some cultures and attract some of the cutest cat names.

Calico cats are known for their beautiful tri-colored coats. Considered symbols of good luck in Japan and popular in the United States, calico cats are beloved pets worldwide.

But what do you name your unique-looking kitty? Something reminiscent of their caramel, golden fur, or a name that expresses their character? So many choices, but just one cat (for now).

Since all calicos have such distinctive markings, it’s tough to choose a name that reflects their unique beauty. Remember, you don’t have to name your calico for their coloring. There are lots of adorable and quirky names to fit your colorful cat. Let’s explore some of the best names for calico cats so you have plenty of ideas.

Autumn

Is your calico kitty coated in warm oranges and soft browns? If so, Autumn could be the perfect match for your colorful cat. This name encapsulates the cozy vibes of fireside cuddles and fall leaves turning amber, cinnamon, and caramel. 

Bastet

Calico cats hail from Egypt. This makes Bastet the perfect name to honor cats of this coloration, and it’s also one of our favorite unique cat names. Even better, Bastet was the ancient Egyptian goddess of cats, fertility, and protection. Why not pick a name that celebrates both their roots and their connection to one of the world’s first feline deities?

Calypso

Calypso is the ideal name for a striking calico kitty. It’s the name of a Greek nymph, known for her enchanting songs and stunning appearance. It reflects your calico’s beauty and matches the whimsy and charm of this lively type of kitten.

Calliope

Got a chatty calico girl cat? Calliope would work very well. Calliope was one of the Greek Muses, and the name means “beautiful voiced,” so if you have a talkative kitty who fills your home with melodic meowing, this is a fitting choice. After all, Callie the Calico has a real ring to it.

Coco

This name makes you think of chocolate swirling with cream, mixed with the elegance of Coco Chanel. It’s the perfect female cat name for a calico kitty with rich browns and creams in her mottled coat — both chic and sweet. It’s a lovely pick for a feline friend that has an air of sophistication.

Emberly

Conjuring up the vision of glowing coals, Emberly is a warming choice for a calico cat of deep oranges, browns, and blacks. This name is fiery and cozy all at once, celebrating a kitten with a smoldering coat color.

Fiesta

Does your calico kitten boast a vibrant personality? Fiesta says it all. The Spanish word for “celebration,” this name complements a cat with a feisty, playful spirit and a carnival color pattern to match. It’s a cute cat name that makes every day feel like a party.

Gatsby

Calico cats are a symbol of good fortune, and Gatsby is a name that celebrates luck and luxury. Hinting at grandeur, this name is inspired by the famous American novel The Great Gatsby. While male calicos are rare, they do exist, so honor that exclusivity with this opulent All-American name.

Fun fact: Only one in 3,000 calico cats are male. That’s because the X chromosome carries the genetic markers for fur color, and female cats have two X chromosomes. Male calico cats are genetic anomalies with an additional X chromosome. If a male cat gets an extra X chromosome, a condition called Klinefelter syndrome, he can end up with a calico coat.

infographic with calico cat; text reads 'Only 1 in 3,000 calico cats are male'

Harlequin

If your kitty has calico coloring like a jester’s patchwork, Harlequin (or “Harley” for short) is a top pick. Known for colorful clothing and mischievous characters, Harlequin is a name that originates from French passion plays. If your calico is as colorful as a clown and as naughty as an imp, this unisex cat name fits the bill.

Kaelen

An elegant Celtic name, Kaelen is a unisex option that means “slender.” If you have a slight kitten with a slinky look, this graceful name is a lovely choice. It’s understated but striking, with a soft undertone. Plus, “Kaelen the Calico Kitty” earns extra points for alliteration.

Kaleidoscope

Calico cats’ coats have a gorgeous mix of colors, with a seemingly endless variety of white, brown, and black patterns. So, this is the perfect name to reflect the kaleidoscopic patterns on your new kitty’s fur. As a nickname, you can also call them “Callie.”

Kingfisher

Named after the vibrant bird of blue and orange color, Kingfisher has a regal feel to it. Fitting for a cat with vivid orange patches, this name suits an eye-catching feline that deserves a dash of royal charm. 

Marigold

If you have a bright, cheery cat with an orange and brown coat, Marigold encapsulates this bold mix of colors. Inspired by the flower, this name gives glowing, sunny day vibes. It’s a perfect match for a calico that brings a bit of sunshine to the room.

Midas

The name Midas brings to mind mythical associations of wealth, thanks to the legend of his golden touch. Aligning with the idea of calico cats bringing money and good fortune, Midas works well for a calico with a dash of gold in its fur. This name is a little reminder of the good fortune that comes with every purr.

Mint

Another wealth-themed name, Mint refers to the process of making money. If your furry friend is speckled with gold coloring mixed into their mottled coat, then give them a name that reminds you of gold coins and good fortune. 

Nebula

Does your cat’s coat resemble swirling galaxies? Then try Nebula on for size. This name gives off a celestial charm, filled with mystery and beauty. It’s the perfect moniker for a kitty whose color variations feel as mesmerizing as the Milky Way.

Orion

If you need another celestial-inspired name, Orion is a powerful choice. In Greek mythology, Orion was a giant and highly skilled hunter. If your cat has twinkling orange patches, this name has double the value, as Orion is also one of the most famous constellations. 

Orchid

With their intricate, delicate patterns, orchid flowers give off graceful vibes. It’s perfect for a girl cat that’s gentle in nature and complex in color. Since lots of orchid breeds are brilliant white with added patterning, it will suit a mostly white calico with subtle, lacy color variations.

Oriole

If you live in Maryland, Oriole might be a good fit for your calico. Calicos are the state cat of Maryland, and Orioles are the state bird (and baseball team). So for Maryland-based kitties, this is the ideal local name to make your kitty feel at home.

Opal

A shimmering gemstone that sparkles with iridescent wonder, Opal is a great pick for cats with a calico coloration that looks like marble. If your calico beauty has mesmerizing color patterns, this opulent name will remind you every day how precious your kitty is. Lastly, Opal is the birthstone for the month of October, so consider this name if your new cat was born or adopted in this month.

Patch

Patch, or Patches, is both simple and charming. Like a cozy patchwork quilt, this name captures the nostalgic vibe of old-fashioned times, while nodding to the patches of a calico’s multicolored coat. If you’re looking for cute cat names that aren’t overly complicated, this is a nice pick.

Pet Pro Tip: Regardless of which breed you bring home, make sure to get help protecting your new best fur friend with a best-in-class kitten insurance or cat insurance plan. Vet bills for unexpected accidents & illnesses can add up fast – it pays to be prepared with insurance.

Penny

Everyone knows the saying. “Find a penny, pick it up, all day long, you’ll have good luck. Give that penny to a friend, and your luck will never end.” Calicos are known for being lucky, so a fortuitous name would be perfect for them.

Pepper

For a spicy, playful kitty with mostly black coloring, Pepper is a fun choice. If your kitten has a bold coat with speckled, scattered details, this is a perfect pick. It’s especially fitting if your cat is as lively as a dash of pepper on your favorite dish.

Picasso

Known for his bold surrealism and patchy style, Picasso is a fitting tribute to the world-famous painter. If your calico cat has vibrant, artistic coloring like an abstract painting — or if, like the artist, he’s a bit of a jerk sometimes — this is a top name.

Pixie

Have you picked a naughty little calico with a mischievous spirit? Or maybe you’re just a big fan of 80s rock. Either way, Pixie is a great choice for a calico with fairy-like charm and a playful spirit. This name is a lovely way to remind yourself of the whimsy and magic of having a kitten in your life.

Prism

A Prism refracts light into a rainbow of beautiful colors. Perfect for a calico with a good mix of different hues, Prism hints at kaleidoscopes and color wheels.

Ra

Another Egyptian-themed name, Ra works perfectly for a calico cat with striking, sunny colors. The name of Egypt’s powerful sun god, this majestic pick honors the ancient heritage of calico cats while celebrating radiant orange hues. 

Rorschach

The random patterns of a calico often resemble a smattering of inkblots in various shades of black and white. Why not name your calico kitty Rorschach after the famous psychological inkblot test? You can even try to figure out the pattern you see in their fur. For fans of the graphic novel Watchmen, you could also name your cat after the half-feral superhero of the same name.

Rocky Road

A family favorite, Rocky Road ice cream is made from chocolate ice cream, nuts, and marshmallows. This swirling color combo aligns perfectly with calico coloring — chocolate for the dark browns and black, nuts for the light browns and oranges, and ice cream for the whites. A super-sweet ice cream flavor to suit a super-sweet kitten.

Samoa

Everyone loves Girl Scout cookie season, and Samoas are one of the best cookies around. These shortbread cookies are coated in caramel and topped with dark chocolate stripes and coconut — another color combination that’s similar to a calico. Why not name your new girl after this cult cookie classic?

S’more

This classic campfire snack would also make a terrific name for your calico kitten. The delectable combo of roasted marshmallows and melted chocolate, sandwiched between two graham crackers, is always a treat. 

Snickers

Snickers is a popular candy bar made from nougat, caramel, peanuts, and milk chocolate. It would be a great name for a calico with a colorful coat to match the coloring of its delicious confectionary combination.

Sphinx

The name of an Egyptian mythical creature with a human head and lion’s body, Sphinx is a strong, feline name that celebrates fierce cats. This name also nods to the calico cat’s Egyptian roots, and it’s a great choice for a with a commanding presence and a little hint of mystery.

Sprinkles

Do you have a spotty, dotty calico kitty with an adorable, cheerful personality? Sprinkles are as sweet as can be. This playful name embodies the fun of colorful sweet treats like cupcakes and ice creams. 

Sundae

If your calico’s coat is a swirl of orange and brown on a creamy white coat, Sundae is an ideal match. This delicious layered dessert is a great way to celebrate your kitty’s rippling appearance and sweet nature.

Topaz

A fiery, golden gemstone, Topaz evokes a feeling of swirling warmth. It fits calicos with rich oranges and browns in its coat. This precious name pays homage to the gem-like beauty of calico coloring, giving an elegant touch to your kitten.

Treasure

Linked to wealth and luck, calico cats are a true treasure. So what better name than Treasure? This is an especially fitting name for a rescue cat, honoring the good fortune that brought you together.

Trio

Calico cats are instantly recognizable for their tri-colored coats, and Trio is a lovely name that honors each shade of white, black, and brown equally. This name would also work extra well if your new calico is the third addition to your family.

calico cat looking in a mirror staring at other cats

Twix

We know naming a new kitty is a challenge for pet parents, so while you’re chewing it over, consider Twix for your calico. With its legendary combination of biscuit cookie, caramel, and milk chocolate, Twix pairs very well with your calico’s coat. The only question: Is she a left Twix or a right Twix?

Zephyrine

Zephyrine is a gentle, airy name that comes from the Greek word for “west wind.” A great choice for a laid-back calico cat with an easy-breezy personality, this adorable female cat name is soft, graceful, and serene.

Picking the perfect calico cat name

Calico cats have very distinctive coloring, giving you a wealth of ideas for naming your cat. You can go with the tricolor theme or pick the dominant color and find a name that matches their markings.

You can also look beyond their coloring and name your cat after something meaningful to you. For instance, you could take inspiration from a historical figure, national park, or book character you love.

Whatever you end up calling your cat, you want a name that’s timeless, as a healthy cat will stay in your life for many years. With this in mind, help your cat stay healthy and happy with one of Pumpkin’s cat insurance plans. When you invest in pet insurance for your precious feline family member, you can focus less on cost and more on getting them the best possible care.

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Ali Morretta

Ali Morretta

Writer, Adoring Corgi Mom
Ali is a writer, editor & proud Corgi mom with diverse experience across educational publishing & entertainment blogging.
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