Revealed: Top pet names of the year – as cat and dog owners increasingly name their animals after politicians

The nation’s most popular pet names for 2024 have been revealed – and it appears pet parents are taking inspiration from the stars – and their favourite culinary treats – when it comes to naming their furry friends. 

TrustedHousesitters, the global pet-sitting platform, has unveiled its annual Pet Name Study, to find the most popular pet names across the UK. 

After analysing over 120,000 pet names, the data found traditional favourite names, such as Luna and Poppy, remain ever-popular, while more eccentric monikers, such as Crumble, Pickle and Boris, have emerged as increasingly prominent picks. 

However, the celestial-inspired Luna has risen to the top spot for overall pet names in the UK, having ranked as the most popular name for cats and the second most popular for dogs.  

Meanwhile, when it comes to canines, traditional favourite Poppy still reigns supreme, followed by Luna and Bella. 

Following Luna’s ranking as number one on the list of top cat names, other popular choices include Coco, Bella and Milo. 

The study also revealed that pet owners are getting increasingly creative when naming their four-legged friends. 

This year has seen a surge in quirky monikers, such as Crumble – up 3,796 per cent in popularity since last year – and Pickle, which has seen a 515 per cent increase in popularity. 

The literary-inspired Bronte has shown a significant 1,848 per cent increase, while Bertie has grown notably in popularity – up 2,961 per cent – and, despite political associations, Boris has seen a 351 per cent increase this year. 

Additionally, a number of new pet name entries have emerged, including Twiglet and Mungo – which is perhaps inspired by the bestselling novel, ‘Young Mungo.’

The study also revealed a growing trend of food-inspired names, such as Pepper leading the pack as the most popular culinary-related name for both cats and dogs, followed closely by Olive and Honey.

The data also highlights some quintessentially British – and Scottish – food and drink choices gaining popularity, including Crumpet, Marmite, and Whisky.

Angela Laws, Head of Community at TrustedHousesitters, said: ‘Each year, our Pet Name Study reveals fascinating insights into the names that pet owners choose for their beloved companions. 

Following Luna’s ranking as number one on the list of top cat names, other popular choices include Coco, Bella and Milo

‘It’s fascinating to see how pet naming trends evolve. While classic names like Bella and Charlie remain popular, we’re seeing a surge in more unique and playful choices.’

Laws added: ‘We’re seeing a real trend towards names that reflect British culture and foods. 

‘It seems pet owners are using their furry friends’ names as a form of expression, whether it’s showcasing their humour or their favourite treats.’

Last year, Everypaw Pet Insurance determined that the top three strangest pet names in the UK are ‘Ham and Cheese Toastie,’ ‘Albus Dumblepaws’ and ‘Baguette.’

Popular food items and well known fictional characters seem to be the source of inspiration behind the majority of the bizarre pet names.