The Three Correct Terms For A Female Cat

You probably know that a male cat is called a tom or tomcat. But what about female cats? It turns out there are actually three correct terms for a female cat, and which one applies depends on the cat’s age and reproductive status. Here is a quick guide to the proper terminology.

1. Queen

The most well known term for a female cat is “queen.” This term is used specifically for an adult female cat that is either unspayed, pregnant, or nursing kittens. In the cat breeding world, queen is the standard term used for a breeding female. If you watch cat shows or read breeding registries, you will see this term used extensively.

The origin of the term is thought to come from the queening process, which is the term breeders use for a cat giving birth. When a female cat has kittens, she is said to be “queening.” The word fits well because female cats can be quite regal and authoritative, especially when caring for their young.

In casual conversation, most people do not call their pet cat a queen unless they are involved in breeding. But it is the technically correct term for any intact adult female cat.

2. Molly

A “molly” is the term for a spayed female cat. Just as a neutered male cat is sometimes called a “gib,” a female cat that has been spayed (had her reproductive organs removed) is referred to as a molly. This term is less commonly known than queen, and many cat owners have never heard it, but it is the correct counterpart.

In everyday language, most people simply say “spayed female” rather than using the term molly. But if you are looking for the proper, specific term for your spayed girl cat, molly is the one.

3. Kitten

A young female cat, like any young cat, is simply called a kitten. The term kitten applies to both male and female cats until they reach maturity, which is typically around 12 months of age. Some people use “she kitten” or “female kitten” to specify the gender, but the generic term kitten works regardless of sex.

Once a kitten reaches adulthood, she transitions into being called either a queen (if intact) or a molly (if spayed).

Why Does Cat Terminology Matter?

For the average pet owner, knowing these terms is mostly just fun trivia. But for breeders, veterinary professionals, and cat show enthusiasts, using the correct terminology is important for clear communication. Breeding registries, pedigree papers, and show documentation all use these specific terms.

It is also just interesting to know. Cats have a surprisingly detailed vocabulary of specialized terms associated with them, from the queening process to the kindle (a group of kittens) to the clowder (a group of adult cats). Understanding these terms gives you a deeper appreciation for the rich history of humans living alongside and caring for cats.

Other Fun Cat Terminology

While we are on the subject, here are a few more cat terms you might not know. A male cat is called a tom or tomcat. A neutered male is sometimes called a gib. A group of cats is called a clowder. A group of kittens is called a kindle. The act of giving birth in cats is called queening. And a cat’s whiskers are technically called vibrissae.

So the next time someone asks you what a female cat is called, you can impress them with not just one answer but three: queen, molly, or kitten, depending on the cat’s age and status. Your cat might not care what you call her, but at least you will know you are using the right word.