Pet Names

Now Let’s Have Some Fun With Pet Names

Dog names, cat names, rabbit names, unusual names… where do you start?

When I was 12 I had a cat that I named Kat…yes, really original that one.

Here is your opportunity to have some fun with pet names. Show your personality.

Be unique or daring in a way that you never can be with your kid’s names…well for some of us anyway.

See the lists of names at the end of this page. But before you do, here are some points to keep in mind…

1. Don’t Choke On It

You have to be comfortable yelling your pet's name at the top of your lungs.

How do you feel about racing through a crowded park trying to get “Poo Poo” under control?

Often puppy names don’t fit so well once your dog is fully grown. Think ahead and make sure the name will still fit.

2. Cover Your Ears

You have to be able to call your pet in public without being arrested or having your mother faint. No explanation needed here.

3. Aunty Dot Messed on the Rug Again

It’s not a good idea to name pets after living relatives or friends.

Firstly your mum or boyfriend may not like having a Rottweiler, guinea pig, or fish named after them.

Secondly, what happens when your pet dies and you have to bury Aunty Dot in the back yard? It can be emotional enough without the added weight of the name association.

So you loved your boyfriend Jason so much you named your cat after him. Is it any surprise that your new boyfriend gets jealous every time you start with “Ooh, Jason, who’s a clever ickle boy? Yes, you are!”?

4. Tom Junior

Don’t name your pet with the favorite names you are considering for your future children. Pets can live for a long time.

You finally bring home your new born son, Tom. Do you want to spend the next 10 years hearing things like “I see Tom’s stuck up the tree again” and getting the fright of your life as you try to work out if it’s the cat or your darling boy?

5. A Little Respect

Don’t use disrespectful names. This is similar to the point above called “Cover Your Ears”.

Even though these words are not classed as swear words it doesn’t mean you should name your pet with them.

Words like “Stupid”, “Useless”, "Ugly"… have strong, negative associations. Some people think it’s funny. It’s just plain mean.

Your pet can’t speak English but it knows when you aren’t being kind. Treat an animal with respect and it will be healthier, happier and more loving in return.

6. Have Some Fun

Do choose a name for your pet that is fun, unique and flattering. The names you choose for a pet snake will differ from female puppy names…unless it suits your sense of humor!

Of course there is nothing wrong with sticking to the good old fashioned names like Molly, Max or Tigger either.

What's Your Pet's Name?

Have you any good advice on choosing pet names you’d like to share?

Does your pet cat sport an exotic animal name?

Or have you ever heard a funny pet name? Let us know.

Use our feedback form.

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