Considering how sacred cats were – and still are – to the Egyptians, why not give your new cat an Egyptian name?

Top 50 Egyptian Names for Your Exotic Cat

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If you’re looking for an Egyptian cat name, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve done plenty of research behind it and there’s lots of information to share. From Cleopatra’s cat and Bastet the Egyptian goddess, it’s clear – cats were sacred to ancient Egyptians.

Fast forward to today and many of us still treat our cats like members of the royal family. It seems fitting then, to give our meowsers names that match their sacred status in our hearts.

In this article, not only will you find the perfect Egyptian cat name for your feline but you’ll also learn why cats were considered so special in Ancient Egypt and why Cleopatra and the Egyptian goddess Bastet were held in such high regard.

Did Cleopatra's cat look anything like this regal Sphynx cat?

50 amazing Egyptian cat names

With more than 5,000 years of rich Egyptian history, the language offers a wide variety of names. Try “Ebony” if you have a beautiful black lioness, or perhaps “Heru” (AKA sun god) if your kitty loves to bathe in the warmth of sunlight.

Without further ado here are 50 amazing Egyptian cat names to choose from…

Egyptian cat names and their meanings

Female Egyptian cat namesEgyptian cat name meanings
1. AkilaIntelligent
2. AzizaPrecious
3. BastWarrior goddess of cats
4. BastetGoddess of cats and the home
5. CleopatraA queen of Egypt
6. DalilaGentle
7. EbonyBlack
8. EsheLife
9. IsisSupreme Goddess
10. JamilaBeauty
11. KamilahPerfection
12. KanikaBlack
13. LaylaBorn at night
14. LotusLotus flower
15. MandisaSweet
16. NailahSuccessful
17. NefertitiName of a queen
18. NeithThe divine mother
19. NileFrom the Nile
20. PanyaMouse
21. SagiraLittle one
22. SelmaSecure
23. TahiraPristine
24. ZahraFlower
25. ZalikiWellborn
Male Egyptian cat namesEgyptian cat name meanings
1. AbasiStern
2. AdofoFighter
3. AkiikiFriendly
4. AkinsBrave
5. AziboEarth
6. AziziPrecious
7. BesBrings joy
8. BomaniWarrior
9. DakaraiHappy
10. DariusName of a pharaoh
11. HapiA god of the Nile
12. HeruSun god
13. HusaniHandsome
14. IshaqLaughs
15. KoseyLion
16. LateefGentle
17. MenesName of a king
18. ObaKing
19. SadikiFaithful
20. SebGod of the earth
21. ThabitStrong
22. TumainiHope
23. UmiLife
24. ZahurA flower
25. ZuberiStrong
Considering how sacred cats were – and still are – to the Egyptians, why not give your cat an Egyptian name?

Egyptian cat mythology FAQs

We’ll unearth answers to your most pressing questions about felines, from Bastet, the revered Egyptian cat goddess to the historical ponderings about Cleopatra’s cat…

Why did Egyptians worship cats?

To ancient Egyptians, felines were way more than just adorable fluffballs that ruled the cats of Instagram feed (or, more fittingly, the hieroglyph-covered pyramid walls). As a matter of fact, they were divinely celestial creatures. Cats were the embodiment of grace, poise and a pinch of mischievous charm.

Essentially, Egyptians saw cats as a reflection of certain virtues they held dear: protection, fertility and good fortune. Plus, those sneaky night prowlers kept the rodent population in check, earning them even more brownie points.

Speaking of protecting our food stores, that’s part of the origin of the domestic cat.

What is the name of the Egyptian cat goddess?

The Egyptian cat goddess is named ‘Bastet’. She was a prominent deity in ancient Egyptian mythology and was often depicted as a lioness or as a woman with the head of a lioness or domestic cat.

Here’s where it gets truly enchanting: Bastet, the goddess of home, fertility, and (you guessed it) cats, was a big deal. Imagine the cat lady of all cat ladies with a helping of cosmic powers.

Bastet often sported a feline head or was depicted as an elegant woman with a cat by her side, giving all the ‘crazy cat lady’ stereotypes a run for their money. And as a symbol of both grace and ferocity, boy did she do it with style.

The ancient Egyptians held her in high regard and often kept domestic cats as pets, believing they brought good fortune and protection due to their connection to Bastet.

Basically, worshipping cats became woven into the tapestry of Egyptian culture. So, they were often welcomed into homes, cuddled and pampered like furry royalty. Sound familiar?

More about Bastet: fabulous feline goddess

Let’s delve a little deeper into what the goddess Bastet represents, since she holds a significant place in Egyptian mythology and symbolism (and is great inspiration for an Egyptian cat name).

Bastet is most commonly associated with these attributes:

#1 Protection: Bastet is often seen as a protector, both in a physical sense, safeguarding homes and individuals from harm, and in a broader sense, offering emotional and spiritual protection. Her fierce and nurturing qualities combine to create a powerful sense of security.

#2 Fertility and motherhood: The nurturing aspect of Bastet is also associated with fertility and motherhood. Ancient Egyptians believed she could grant blessings of fertility to women and assist in safe childbirth, making her a symbol of creation and new life. A cat goddess that makes giving birth easier… sounds great!

#3 Joy and celebration: Not to mention, Bastet is frequently linked to joy, dance, and music. Festivals dedicated to her were marked by lively celebrations, suggesting her role in promoting happiness and the enjoyment of life.

Are cats gods?

Are cats gods? It depends on who’s asking – ask any cat and they’ll probably blink slowly in approval. In various cultures and mythologies, people have associated cats with deities and divine qualities. And as we already know, ancient Egyptian society held felines in high regard.

In ancient times, cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this.”

– Terry Pratchett

People often linked the majestic and mysterious demeanour of cats to gods and goddesses, like Bastet.

Of course, it’s important to remember that interpretations of gods and religious beliefs vary widely across cultures and even from one home to the next. But if you give your meow an Egyptian cat name and treat them like royalty, we’re sure they’ll a-purr-oove.

For more info on lucky cats in Japanese culture, read this ‘All About the Maneki Neko – Japan’s Lucky Cat’ article.

A statue of the Egyptian goddess Bastet.

Who was Cleopatra’s cat?

While history might not offer a tell-all biography of Cleopatra’s beloved cat, the notion that she had a cat – or perhaps several – is a charming one that’s been passed down through the ages.

There’s this popular tale that Cleopatra had a favourite cat. Although there’s no historical evidence to support this claim, this ancient Egyptian cat was apparently named Tivali. In reality, it’s more likely she was a cat enthusiast with a whole bunch of equally cherished felines.

Felines owned by Egyptian royals were enrobed in golden jewellery and many goddesses were portrayed as cats or as women holding cats. Basically, the Ancient Egyptians held cats in the highest esteem. Hurting or killing a cat was punishable by death!

More about caring for your royal meow

After choosing your meow’s Egyptian cat name, we present a purrfect selection of our blog posts, all geared towards ensuring your regal highness receives the finest care in terms of both pet safety and nutrition:

  1. Pet Plan Shopping in Australia: What You Need to Know
  2. Online Vet Consultations: Are They Worth It?
  3. Yay or Nay – Can Kittens Eat Adult Cat Food?
  4. Dry Cat Food or Wet? How to Choose
  5. What is a Pet Body Condition Score and Why is it Important?

Cat insurance for your Egyptian named feline

Hmm… looks like we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing an awesome Egyptian cat name for our four-legged pharaohs. With PD Insurance, you’re also spoiled for choice when it comes to our value-rich cat insurance plans.

If you’re new to pet insurance, here’s a big tip. If you start when your kitten is young, before any conditions rear their heads, they’ll be able to enjoy broader cover. Choose award winning cover with PD and you can get one or more months of FREE pet insurance. Click below to get a quote for your pet’s plan. 

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