Finding the Purrfect Fit: Discovering Charming 3-Letter Cat Names

Considering a brief yet memorable name for your new feline companion? Three-letter cat names offer simplicity and charm, and we’ve curated a selection covering popular choices, classic monikers, and names with origins from around the globe.

Perhaps you wonder if a name with only three letters might be too concise? Explore this comprehensive list and consider if combining two names might be a delightful option. For instance, one cherished tuxedo cat we knew was affectionately named Kit Kat, a playful blend of two names featured on this very list!

A cute tabby cat and a fluffy white cat posing together, representing popular choices for three-letter names

Delightful Unisex Short Cat Names

Choosing a name for your new cat is a special moment. Here are some fantastic three-letter options that work wonderfully for both male and female cats, each with a unique meaning or origin.

Ari: A unisex name with Hebrew and Icelandic roots. In Hebrew, it translates to “lion,” while in Icelandic, it means “eagle.” A strong name for a spirited cat.

Ash: This name has diverse origins. It can stem from the Old English word “æsc,” referring to the “ash tree,” or serve as a shortened version of names like Ashley or Ashton.

Boe: Originating as a Scandinavian surname, Boe is derived from “bói,” meaning “farm.” This could be a fitting choice for a cat with a love for the outdoors or perhaps a barn cat.

Cal: An English name meaning “bald” or “bare.” While most cats are far from bald, it’s a simple, friendly name.

Cam: A unisex name of Scottish heritage, derived from a term signifying “crooked nose.”

Cap: This name is often linked to the word “captain,” suggesting leadership or a sense of authority.

Cat: A straightforward choice – perfect because this is your cat, plain and simple!

Chi: Representing one’s life force, Chi is a meaningful name for a cat who brings vibrant energy into your home.

Cuz: A colloquial term used as a friendly nickname or short form of “cousin.”

Day: A modern English name evoking sunlight, symbolizing brightness, happiness, and positivity.

Dwi: With Indonesian origins, Dwi means “two” or “second.” An excellent option if this is your second cat.

Dzi: Pronounced “Zee,” Dzi is a Tibetan name meaning “splendor.” It also refers to a highly collectible type of precious bead, adding a touch of unique cultural significance.

Edi: An Italian name (and a nickname for Edoardo or Edward) translating to “wealthy guardian” or “rich protector.”

Hey: A surname with Germanic origins, meaning “one who mows the grass.”

Jae: A unisex name of Korean origin, meaning “talent” or “excellence.”

Jet: A fantastic choice for a sleek black cat or one who zooms around the house like a bolt of lightning.

Kai: This Hawaiian name means “sea” or “ocean,” ideal for a cat with mesmerizing blue eyes or a relaxed, flowing personality.

Kit: A common nickname for Christopher and Katherine, or even the term for a baby fox. A charming, versatile name.

Rio: Meaning “river,” this is a lovely name for a cat belonging to someone who adores travel and exploration.

Moe: A unisex name of Japanese origin, meaning “sprouting” or “budding.”

Wyn: A name with Welsh roots, signifying “fair” or “white.”

Elegant Three-Letter Girl Cat Names

For those seeking a concise and sweet name for their female feline, this section presents some adorable three-letter cat names perfect for your girl.

Ada: A name of Germanic origin, meaning “noble” or “noble-born.”

Aja: A Sanskrit name meaning “goat” or “mountain goat.” This name also has West African origins, associated with the Yoruba goddess of forests and animals. For more inspiration, explore our list of cute indian cat names.

Amy: A French name derived from the Latin “amatus,” meaning “beloved” or “loved.”

Ana: Of Spanish, Portuguese, and Slavic origin, Ana is a variation of Anna, meaning “grace” or “favor.”

Ann: A variant of Anna, this name has Hebrew origins and also means “grace” or “favor.”

Ava: This beautiful name has Latin roots, meaning “like a bird.” It’s a perfect fit for a graceful and petite kitten.

Bea: A diminutive of Beatrice, Bea means “she who brings happiness” and has Latin origins.

Bex: A modern name often used as a nickname for Rebecca, without a specific meaning beyond its diminutive form.

Cey: A diminutive of a Turkish girl’s name signifying “shadow” or “shade.” It can also be a surname.

Dee: An English name, often a short form of names like Deborah or Delilah.

Dia: A name with Greek origins meaning “divine” or “heavenly.”

Dot: A shortened form of Dorothy, Dot means “gift of God.”

Dua: An Arabic name meaning “prayer” or “supplication.”

Dya: Of Arabic origin, Dya means “splendor” or “brilliance.”

Eda: A name with various origins, often meaning “wealthy” or “prosperous.”

Ela: This name has multiple origins. It can be derived from the Hebrew “Elah,” meaning “oak tree,” or from Turkish, meaning “hazel nut.”

Ema: With origins in Hebrew and German, Ema means “mother” in Hebrew and is a variant of Emma, meaning “universal” or “whole” in German.

Emi: A Japanese name meaning “beautiful blessing.”

Ena: A name with various origins, including Irish, where it means “little fire.”

Era: Era holds many meanings globally, including the Hebrew meaning “to create” or “to bring to life.” It can also be interpreted as “earth” or “land.”

Eta: With Greek and Italian origins, Eta means “goddess” or “nymph” in Greek and represents the seventh letter of the alphabet in Italian.

Eva: Of Hebrew origin, derived from Chava, meaning “life” or “living one.”

Eve: Also originating from Hebrew, Eve means “life” or “living one.” This name suits a lively and energetic cat.

Evy: A diminutive of Eve or Eva, carrying the same meanings of “life” or “living one.”

Eya: An Arabic name meaning “miracle” or “wonder.”

Fay: An English name derived from the Middle English “fai,” meaning “fairy” or “elf.”

Flo: Of Latin origin, Flo is a diminutive of names like Florence or Flora, meaning “flowering” or “blossom.”

Fre: A Scandinavian name derived from the Norse goddess Freyja, representing love, beauty, and fertility.

Gay: An English name meaning “joyful” or “cheerful.”

Gem: Derived from the English word for precious stones, symbolizing beauty, rarity, and value.

Gia: Originating from Italian, it means “God’s gracious gift” or “God’s graciousness.”

Gil: Derived from the Hebrew name Gilad, meaning “happiness” or “joy.”

Gin: A diminutive of Virginia, meaning “pure” or “virginal.”

Gis: A variant of Giselle, with Germanic roots meaning “pledge” or “hostage.”

Gud: Derived from Old Norse, it means “God” and represents divine goodness.

Gus: A diminutive of Augusta or Augustina, derived from Latin and meaning “great” or “venerable.”

Ida: Derived from the Germanic element “id,” meaning “work” or “labor.”

Ila: Derived from the Sanskrit “ila,” meaning “earth” or “speech.” Also a derivative of the Scottish Isla, meaning “island.”

Ivy: English in origin, linked to the climbing ivy plant, symbolizing fidelity and eternity.

Jai: Derived from Sanskrit, meaning “victory” or “triumph.”

Jan: A Hebrew name meaning “gift from God” or “God is gracious.”

Jia: Derived from Chinese, meaning “outstanding” or “favorite person.”

Joy: Expressive of happiness and delight, this name purrfectly describes the feeling your new cat brings into your life.

Kat: Derived from Katherine or Katarina, of Greek origin, meaning “pure” or “blessed.”

Kay: An English name meaning “rejoice” or “exult.”

Kee: A Korean name meaning “happiness” or “delight.”

Kim: A name with various origins, potentially referring to the color gold or being a nickname for Kimberly.

Lea: A Hebrew name meaning “weary” or “meadow.”

Lee: Derived from Old English, meaning “meadow” or “clearing.”

Lia: A name with various origins, meaning “weary” (Hebrew), “lioness” (Italian), or “bearer of good news” (Greek).

Liv: A Scandinavian name meaning “life” or “protection.”

Lya: Derived from Slavic roots, meaning “light” or “truth.”

Mae: Derived from the Old English “maegen,” meaning “strength” or “power.”

Mia: A name with multiple origins, meaning “mine” (Italian), “wished-for child” (Scandinavian), or “bitter” (Hebrew).

Mya: Derived from the Greek word “myrrh,” a fragrant resin.

Myra: A Greek name meaning “sweet-smelling” or “myrrh.”

Ola: Derived from Old Norse, meaning “ancestor’s relic” or “forever.”

Oma: A German name meaning “grandmother” or “graceful.”

Ona: Derived from Lithuanian, meaning “grace” or “favor.”

Ora: Derived from Latin, meaning “gold” or “prayer.”

Pam: A diminutive of Pamela, of Greek origin, meaning “all honey” or “sweetness.”

Pat: Derived from Patricia or Patrick, of Latin origin, meaning “noble” or “patrician.”

Peg: A diminutive of Margaret, of Greek origin, meaning “pearl.”

Pip: Often used as a nickname for Philip or Philippa. Philip means “lover of horses,” from the Greek “phílos” (friend, lover) and “híppos” (horse).

Rae: A variant of Ray, meaning “grace” or “ewe” (female sheep).

Ria: Derived from various cultures, meaning “river” (Spanish), “small” (Hindi), or “jasmine flower” (Indonesian).

Rue: An English name meaning “regret” or “repentance.”

Sia: A name with various origins, meaning “victory” (Greek), “helper” (Swahili), or “shadow” (Persian).

Sky: A beautiful nature-inspired name suitable for male or female cats, suggesting freedom and expansiveness.

Sue: A diminutive of Susan, of Hebrew origin, meaning “lily” or “graceful lily.”

Tao: A name of Chinese origin meaning “peach” or “long life.”

Tia: Derived from the Greek “theia,” meaning “goddess” or “divine.” In Spanish, it means “aunt.”

Tin: A Vietnamese name meaning “new” or “morning.”

Tri: A Vietnamese name meaning “born in the third month” or “intelligent.”

Una: Of Irish origin from “uaine,” meaning “green” or “fresh.” Also associated with Oonagh, meaning “lamb” in Gaelic, and in Irish mythology, a daughter of the sea god.

Uma: A Sanskrit name of Indian origin, meaning “splendor,” “light,” or “fame.”

Val: Derived from the Latin Valentina, meaning “strong” or “healthy.”

Van: A unisex name of Dutch origin, meaning “of” or “from.”

Via: A Latin name meaning “way” or “path.”

Yen: Derived from Vietnamese, meaning “calm” or “peaceful.”

Zia: Derived from Arabic, meaning “light” or “splendor.”

Zoe: Of Greek origin, meaning “life” or “alive,” from “zōē,” signifying vitality and energy.

Handsome Three-Letter Boy Cat Names

When selecting a name for your male cat, three-letter options can be charming and easy to remember. These short, often endearing names add a touch of simplicity and playfulness to your feline companion. Here are some three-letter boy cat names, listed alphabetically, along with their meanings. For more options, check out our guide on male witch names for cats.

Abe: Derived from the Hebrew Abraham, meaning “father of many.” If your cat possesses a wise, perhaps paternal aura, Abe might be a fitting choice.

Ace: An English name representing excellence, superiority, or being the very best.

Ade: A Nigerian Yoruba name meaning “crown” or “royalty.”

Ali: An Arabic name meaning “exalted” or “noble.”

Ben: Short for Benjamin, a Hebrew name meaning “son of the right hand.” Excellent for a loyal, affectionate cat who enjoys being close by.

Bob: Short for Robert, a Germanic name meaning “bright fame” or “famous one.” A fun name, perhaps, for a bob-tailed cat!

Bud: A name symbolizing new beginnings and growth, like a budding flower in spring.

Cal: Often short for Calvin, this name means “bald” in Latin. While your cat is fluffy, Cal remains an adorable choice for a laid-back, lovable feline.

Ced: A name with various origins, including Arabic and Anglo-Saxon, meaning “power,” “loved,” or “guardian of the estate”—the meaning is yours to choose!

Che: A name with multiple origins, often meaning “God will increase.”

Cid: A Spanish and Portuguese name with Arabic origins, meaning “Lord.”

Cob: A shortened form of Jacob, a Hebrew name meaning “one who replaces another.” This might be a suitable name for a cat adopted after the passing of another beloved pet.

Dan: A shortened form of Daniel, this Hebrew name means “God is my judge.” If your cat has a strong, confident demeanor, Dan could be a fitting choice.

Dai: A Welsh name meaning “to shine” or “to give.”

Ean: A Scottish name, a variation of Ian, which is a Scottish form of John, meaning “God is gracious.”

Ebo: An African name meaning “born on Tuesday,” particularly from the Igbo language of Nigeria.

Eli: A Hebrew name meaning “ascended” or “elevated.”

Emi: A name with multiple origins, including Japanese (meaning “beautiful blessing”) and Finnish (meaning “rival” or “competitor”).

Eni: A Nigerian name from the Yoruba language, meaning “person” or “human being.”

Ern: An English name, a nickname for Ernest or Ernesto, which mean “serious” or “earnest.”

Esa: A Hebrew name, a variant of Joshua, meaning “God is salvation.”

Eze: A Nigerian name from the Igbo language meaning “king” or “ruler.”

Faz: An Arabic name meaning “victorious” or “successful.”

Fer: A Catalan name, a short form of Ferran or Fernando, meaning “brave traveler” or “adventurous.” A good name for a cat who seems to have explored many places before finding their home!

Fin: A name of Gaelic and Irish origin, meaning “fair” or “white-haired.”

Flo: A Latin name, a nickname for Florian or Flavius, meaning “flowering” or “yellow-haired.”

Fox: An English name representing the animal, symbolizing cleverness, cunning, and agility.

Fry: An English name referring to someone who lives near a riverbank.

Fyn: A Danish name, a variant of Finn, meaning “fair” or “white-haired.”

Gab: A short form of Gabriel, derived from Hebrew, meaning “God is my strength.”

Gil: Derived from Hebrew, meaning “joy” or “happiness.”

Gus: A short form of Augustus or Angus, of Latin or Scottish origin, meaning “great” or “venerable.”

Hal: An English name meaning “ruler” or “estate owner.”

Han: Derived from various cultures, often a diminutive of Johann or John, meaning “God is gracious.” Or, it might signal a significant Star Wars fan!

Hay: Derived from Old English, meaning “fenced or enclosed area” or “hedged enclosure.”

Hob: An old-fashioned nickname for Robert, a name meaning “bright fame” or “shining with renown.”

Ira: Derived from Hebrew, meaning “watchful” or “vigilant.”

Ian: A Scottish and Gaelic form of John, meaning “God is gracious.”

Ike: A diminutive of Isaac, of Hebrew origin, meaning “he will laugh.”

Ivo: A name with multiple origins, meaning “yew wood” (Germanic) or “archer” (Old Norse).

Jai: Derived from Sanskrit, meaning “victory” or “triumph.”

Jan: A Hebrew name meaning “God is gracious” or “gift of God.”

Jay: Derived from various origins, meaning “victory” (Sanskrit) or referring to the “blue jay” bird (English).

Jed: Derived from the Hebrew Jedidiah, meaning “beloved of God.”

Joe: A diminutive of Joseph, meaning “God will increase” or “God will add.”

Jax: A modern American name, potentially a variant or short form of Jackson or Jaxon (English origin, meaning “son of Jack”). Jax generally conveys a cool, contemporary vibe. Consider exploring cat names beginning with a for other unique initial options.

Kip: Derived from the Old English “cyppan,” meaning “to barter” or “to trade.”

Koa: A Hawaiian name meaning “brave” or “warrior.” For similar strong names, see our list of warrior cat names for white cats.

Lee: Derived from Old English, meaning “meadow” or “clearing.”

Len: A nickname for Leonard.

Leo: This Latin name means “lion,” making it perfect for a cat with a majestic and regal presence. Your little Leo is sure to rule the household with grace and charm.

Lou: A short form of Louis or Louie, derived from Germanic roots, meaning “renowned warrior.”

Max: Often short for Maximilian or Maxwell, Max means “greatest” in Latin. If your cat has an air of importance and demands the best, Max might be the ideal name.

Mel: A Greek name meaning “honey” or “song.”

Mic: A diminutive of Michael, derived from Hebrew, meaning “who is like God.”

Moe: A name with various origins, meaning “helper” (Japanese) or “savior” (Arabic).

Ned: An English name, a diminutive of Edward, meaning “wealthy guardian.”

Neo: Derived from the Greek “neos,” meaning “new” or “young.”

Nic: A short form of Nicholas, derived from Greek, meaning “victory of the people.”

Odi: Derived from the Igbo language of Nigeria, meaning “born on the road” or “wanderer.” A fitting name for a rescue cat found outdoors.

Oli: A Hawaiian name meaning “olive tree” or “peaceful.”

Raj: An Indian name meaning “king” or “ruler.”

Rav: In Hebrew, Rav means “great” or “abundant.” In Sanskrit, it means “sun” or “sun god,” derived from the word for “shine” or “illuminate.”

Ray: This name can be short for Raymond, meaning “wise protector.” If your cat is always attentively watching over you, Ray could be a perfect fit.

Rex: The name Rex is derived from the Latin word “rex,” meaning “king.”

Sam: Derived from Hebrew, meaning “heard by God” or “name of God.” A common nickname for Samuel.

Sol: Derived from Latin, meaning “sun” or “sunlight.”

Sid: From the Old English word for “wide” or “extensive.” A nickname for Sidney.

Tao: Derived from Chinese, meaning “way” or “path.”

Tim: Short for Timothy, a Greek name meaning “to honor God.” A suitable name for a sweet and gentle cat who brings joy into your life.

Tom: A short form of Thomas, derived from Aramaic, meaning “twin.” A classic choice for a tomcat or, fittingly, a name for one of names for 3 kittens siblings.

Tor: Derived from the Old Norse “Þórbjǫrg,” meaning “Thor” (the Norse god) and “protection.”

Van: Derived from Dutch, meaning “from” or “of.”

Vic: A short form of Victor, derived from Latin, meaning “victorious.”

Vin: A short form of Vincent or Vincenzo, derived from Latin, meaning “conquering” or “prevailing.”

Wes: Derived from the Old English word “west,” meaning “west” or “western.”

Wil: A short form of William, derived from Germanic, meaning “will” or “desire.”

Wim: Derived from the Germanic name Wilhelm, meaning “will” or “desire.”

Yan: Derived from various cultures, meaning “swallow” (Chinese), “god is gracious” (Hebrew), or “peace” (Russian).

Yon: Derived from Hebrew, meaning “gift of God” or “God’s grace.”

Yul: Derived from various cultures, meaning “born at Christmas” (Korean), “relating to the sun” (Turkish), or “rose” (Arabic).

Zak: A short form of Zachary, derived from Hebrew, meaning “remembered by God.”

Zeb: Derived from Hebrew, meaning “gift” or “dwelling of honor.”

Short Cat Names Inspired by Entertainment

In this section, discover some cool three-letter cat names drawn from popular movies and TV shows. These names are perfect for giving your feline friend a unique identity that pays homage to your favorite pop culture figures.

• Ari – Derived from Ari Gold, the famously ruthless agent in the hit TV series “Entourage.”
• Bob – A nod to the lovable main character from “Bob’s Burgers.”
• Deb – A reference to the strong and determined sister, Debra Morgan, in the series “Dexter.”
• Eve – An allusion to the mysterious MI6 agent from the thriller series “Killing Eve.”
• Fox – An homage to Fox Mulder, the ever-inquisitive agent in the classic show “The X-Files.”
• Gus – A wonderful tribute to the mush-master Gustave, the human character from Disney’s animated classic “Cinderella.”
• Ian – A nod to Ian Malcolm, the quirky and memorable mathematician from the “Jurassic Park” film franchise.
• Jon – Perfect for ultimate fans of Jon Snow from the epic series “Game of Thrones.”
• Liz – Derived from Elizabeth Lemon, the sometimes-scattered protagonist of the comedy series “30 Rock”—or a tribute to iconic actress Liz Taylor.
• Mia – Ideal for fans of “Pulp Fiction” and the enigmatic character Mia Wallace.
• Ned – A salute to the neighborly and lovable Ned Flanders from the long-running animated series “The Simpsons.”
• Oda – A derivation of the iconic character Oda Mae Brown from the film “Ghost,” known for her humor and heart.

Let these short, three-letter names provide inspiration as you choose the ideal name for your new furry friend. With such a broad selection of three-letter names available, you’re sure to find the purrfect match for your new kitten or cat.

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Conclusion

Choosing the right name for a new cat is an exciting step in welcoming them into your family. Three-letter names offer a unique blend of simplicity, memorability, and character, with options ranging from classic choices to names inspired by diverse cultures and popular entertainment. Whether you prefer a name based on meaning, origin, or just how it sounds, this extensive list provides a wealth of charming possibilities. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect short and sweet name that truly captures your new feline friend’s personality.