Pop Culture Continues to Influence Pet Names in 2024

New research from Pets at Home reveals a continued fascination with pet names influenced by pop culture and entertainment. ‘Luna’, made popular from the Harry Potter character Luna Lovegood, once again holds the top spot as the most popular name for both cats and dogs in 2024 for its fifth consecutive year.

Unlike the real-world counterpart, 'Sabrina' did not dominate the charts (yet), but did see a huge surge in new cat sign-ups for this name. This trend has been attributed to Sabrina Carpenter’s multiple smash hits of 2024, is it that sweet? I guess so.

The research, conducted through Pets at Home’s Pets Club, which now boasts a membership of over 8 million pet owners, highlights how cultural trends continue to inspire pet names. For example, 'Bluey,' inspired by the extremely popular children’s show, remains a top choice for a second year. The name 'Taylor' has also seen a rise, influenced by the global success of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, while 'Batman'...no points for guesses on that one.

Dr Samantha Butler-Davies MRCVS, Veterinary Services Director at Pets at Home, said:

“Adding a pet to the family is an exciting time, but selecting a name for your new arrival is a big decision.  When choosing a name for your pet, aim for something short, clear, and easy to say. One- or two-syllable names are ideal, as they are easier for pets to recognise and respond to. Avoid names that sound too similar to training commands or other names in the household to prevent confusion. Consider your pet's personality, appearance, or unique traits to find a name that feels fitting. Most importantly, choose a name you enjoy saying—you’ll be using it often!”

Top Cat Names 2024

Luna, Milo, and Bella maintain their positions as the top three cat names, continuing their popularity for the third consecutive year.

  • Luna – inspired by the Harry Potter character Luna Lovegood and meaning ‘moon’ in Latin

  • Milo - of German origin meaning ‘soldier’ or ‘merciful’

  • Bella - meaning ‘beautiful’ in Italian

  • Simba – made popular from the Disney movie ‘The Lion King’ and similarly of Swahili origin, meaning ‘lion’

  • Coco – Another Disney inspired name from the Day of the Dead film Coco, is also the shorter version of the name Socorro

  • Nala - of African origin, meaning ‘success’

  • Willow - meaning ‘willow tree’ and ‘freedom’

  • Oreo - after the popular American chocolate biscuit

  • Loki - primarily a male name of Scandinavian origin that means ‘trickster god’, the popularity of this name can also be linked to the Tom Hiddleston portrayal of the God of Mischief throughout Marvel movies.

  • Daisy - a flower symbolising ‘innocence’ and ‘purity’

Top Dog Names 2024

Similarly to cat names, the top dog names show a strong resemblance to last year’s list, with Luna, Bella, and Teddy holding their positions within the top five.

  • Luna - meaning ‘moon’ in Latin

  • Bella - meaning ‘beautiful’ in Italian

  • Teddy - meaning ‘wealthy protector’, ‘brave people’, or ‘God’s gift’

  • Milo - of German origin meaning ‘soldier’ or ‘merciful’

  • Poppy - of Latin origin meaning ‘red flower’

  • Lola - a short form of the Spanish name Dolores, meaning ‘sorrows’

  • Daisy - a flower symbolising ‘innocence’ and ‘purity’

  • Coco - a shorter version of the name Socorro

  • Buddy – meaning ‘friend’ this name has also seen a Christmas spike thanks to the Will Ferrel movie Elf

  • Willow - meaning ‘willow tree’ and ‘freedom’