Choosing the right name for your kitten is fun, but it can also be challenging, particularly if you want to match the name with a certain physical attribute (like big paws). A combination of creativity and helpful resources can make the task easier and even enjoyable.
A Forever Name
Virginia Wells, in her article about naming cats, quotes from T.S. Eliot's "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats": "The naming of cats is a difficult matter, it isn't just one of your holiday games." How true this is! But it is also a happy matter. Just keep in mind that your kitten will soon be a cat. What kind of name will be most appropriate both now and in the future?
Be Creative!
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It is difficult to imagine anything sweeter than a kitten or cat with big paws. In terms of naming, a good way to start is by having some fun with words and things that we associate with paws, hands and feet. "Pawlie," "Pattycake," "Mittens," "Thumper," "Santa Paws" and "Sultan of Swat" are some examples. In the Northwest, the legendary Bigfoot is called Sasquatch, so variations, such as "Sassy" and "Squatch," are possibilities!
Helpful Resources
Lots of great resources containing kitten and cat name suggestions exist in public libraries and bookstores. Also, there are plenty of helpful online resources waiting to be explored, such as bowwow.com.au, catnamesmeow.com and cat-names.us. Additionally, checking websites that provide reliable information about feline breeds known for big paws can be inspirational. Cat Fanciers Association, Animal Planet and the ASPCA are just three examples.
Think Bigger!
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Consider the "big cats" - wild members of the felid family, such as cheetahs, pumas, lynxes, bobcats, sand cats, cougars and the Pallas cat. Those kitties have some very hefty paws! Pick up an encyclopedia or check out a website that provides information about wild animals and see what you can come up with when you read more about your kitten's non-domestic cousins.
Trust Yourself and Your Kitten!
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What is most important is that you select a name that you feel good about - a name that will make you smile warmly, a name that seems a wonderful match for your kitten. When you have a few options to ponder, be sure to say each name out loud a few times while gazing at your kitten's beautiful face. A perfect name is out there - and there is no doubt that you will find it!
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Writer Bio
Jeff Katz has been a professional librarian, educator, historian, writer and editor for almost 20 years. He holds a Master of Library Science degree from the University of British Columbia and a BA degree in Classical Studies from Hunter College of the City University of New York.