Why are Cats called Pussycats? 7 Common Reasons

Why are Cats called Pussycats: 1. Old English roots 2. Dutch word ‘poes’ 3. Gentle nickname 4. Cultural influence 5. Popular use in literature and media.

Why are Cats called Pussycats

The term “pussycat” has been used for hundreds of years, but many cat owners don’t know where it really came from.

It sounds cute and friendly, but it actually carries historical, cultural, and linguistic roots that go far deeper than most people expect.
This name became popular through old languages, nursery rhymes, literature, and even how humans naturally call cats.

Below are the 7 most common reasons why cats came to be known as pussycats.

Quick Summary Table: Why Cats Are Called Pussycats

Reason	Explanation
Ancient language roots	Derived from Old European “pusa/puss” meaning cat
Soft sound	Easy, gentle name for families and children
Nursery rhymes	Stories and rhymes made it popular
Old English culture	Used for small pets and affectionate names
Cats respond to sound	“Pss-pss” resembles “puss,” making it effective
Literature influence	Writers spread the term widely
Symbolic meaning	Represents cuteness and gentleness

1. The Word “Puss” Comes From Ancient European Languages

The word “puss” is believed to come from old European words such as:

• pusa
• puis
• pusi

These were early sounds or phrases people used to call cats.
Because cats responded well to these soft sounds, “puss” became a natural nickname. Over time, it evolved into “pussycat,” combining affection with the animal’s name.

2. A Soft, Gentle-Sounding Name

“Pussycat” rolls off the tongue smoothly.
It has a soft and calming sound, matching how people often describe cats—gentle, graceful, and quiet.

Parents also used it when teaching children because it was easy to pronounce, making it spread even faster.

3. Nursery Rhymes Popularized the Name

One of the strongest reasons the word became famous is the nursery rhyme:

“Pussycat, Pussycat, Where Have You Been?”

Since children repeated this rhyme for generations, the term became part of everyday language.
Rhymes, poems, and storybooks continued to use the word, strengthening its popularity.

4. Used in Old English Culture for Pets

In older English communities, the word “puss” referred to small, cute animals—especially pets.
So adding “cat” created a friendly label used in homes.

The term became a way to show affection and familiarity.

5. Cats Respond to the Sound “Pss-Pss.”

Humans naturally use the sound “pss-pss” to call cats.
This sound is extremely close to “puss,” making it easy for cats to recognize.

Because the sound worked so well, people commonly started saying “puss” or “pussycat” when calling their cats.

6. Literature and Theatre Spread the Word

From the 1500s to the 1700s, writers and playwrights used “pussycat” frequently.
It appeared in:

• Poems
• Comedy plays
• Stories
• Children’s literature

Writers liked the word because it was sweet, funny, and easy to rhyme.
As books and plays spread, so did the name.

7. Symbol of Softness, Sweetness, and Affection

People often use “pussycat” to refer to someone lovable, soft-hearted, or gentle.
This symbolic meaning made the word stick around even longer.

Because cats are often seen as cute and sweet, the nickname fits them perfectly.

FAQs

1. Is the word “pussycat” offensive?

No. Historically it is a completely innocent and affectionate name for a cat. Modern slang meanings came much later.

2. Do people still use the term today?

Yes, especially in children’s books, rhymes, and in a playful, affectionate way.

3. Did “puss” always mean cat?

In many old languages, similar words were used for small animals, but they became strongly connected with cats over time.

4. Why do cats respond to “pss-pss”?

Cats are sensitive to high-frequency sounds. “Pss-pss” is sharp, short, and easy for them to detect.

5. Is “kitty” the same as “pussycat”?

Both are affectionate names, but “kitten/kitty” refers to young cats, while “pussycat” can refer to any age.