Bringing a cat into our home is a great responsibility and as such we must think about it thoroughly: if we will have time for him, if we can afford, for example, unforeseen veterinary expenses, if the whole family will collaborate in his education … There are many factors to take into account and one of them is the choice of your name .
If it is a large family in which there are children, they will surely want to choose the name of the cat, but the rest of the family must agree with the choice. It is a good idea to choose it before the cat comes home so that it gets used to it as soon as possible, but there is no problem in waiting a few days, meeting the cat and seeing how it moves and behaves, because perhaps its character we give some clue and we can come up with your name.
It is better that it be a short name, because the cat will learn it more quickly and when you call it it will also identify it without difficulty. Names of characters from series, movies or books are always a good idea, as well as mythological names or names that derive from something that is special to you.
Compound names or names with difficult to pronounce sounds are not good options , as it will be complicated for you and also for your cat.
The first few weeks are very important because they will be when the cat learns its name. It is important that you do not refer to him in any way other than the name you have chosen, as it will confuse him and it will be even more difficult for him to recognize it as his. Sure you are tempted to use diminutives or affectionate names , but do not do it, especially during the first months.
The learning phase is very important. You can get him used to his name by doing small training sessions, and use positive reinforcement , with a cookie or something healthy to eat that he likes, when he responds to his name. However, you shouldn’t tire him out either, as that can backfire.
But, first of all, we must choose the name. If you have just adopted a kitten and you have doubts, we give you some ideas.
