Taylor Swift Cat Names: Meet Her 3 Famous Cats

How Taylor Swift’s Cats Became Part of Her Public Image

Taylor Swift Cat Names are popular with Swifties and cat lovers who want meaningful pet names inspired by her three famous feline companions.

Taylor Swift’s cats, Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson, and Benjamin Button, have become part of her public image. The singer’s beloved pets appear in social media posts, music videos, commercials, and photographs. Each name comes from a fictional character, making them memorable choices for fans seeking celebrity-inspired cat names. Their stories also offer inspiration for anyone exploring cat name meanings and origins.

Benjamin appeared in the “ME!” music video in 2019, while all three cats featured on Swift’s 2020 holiday card. Benjamin later appeared on the 2023 TIME Person of the Year cover and in a 2024 Instagram post supporting Kamala Harris. Swift’s love for cats also influenced her role in the musical film Cats, for which she took part in cat-related acting preparation. In interviews, she has described her cats as dignified and independent. Their public appearances and distinctive names continue to interest fans looking for creative cat names inspired by television, movies, and pop culture.

Taylor Swift Cat Names at a Glance

Taylor Swift’s three publicly known cats have names connected to characters from popular entertainment. Meredith Grey comes from Grey’s Anatomy, Olivia Benson takes her name from Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and Benjamin Button references the film The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.

Here is a quick overview of all three cats.

Cat name	Reported breed	Name inspiration	Joined Swift’s family
Meredith Grey	Scottish Fold	Meredith Grey from Grey’s Anatomy	2011
Olivia Benson	Scottish Fold	Olivia Benson from Law & Order: Special Victims Unit	2014
Benjamin Button	Ragdoll	Benjamin Button from The Curious Case of Benjamin Button	2019

These cats became familiar to fans through social media, interviews, music-related appearances, and other public moments. Each has a recognizable name that connects Swift’s love of entertainment with her life as a cat owner.

Their names also demonstrate three different naming approaches. You can choose a full character name, use a familiar surname, or borrow the title of a movie character for a pet.

Meredith Grey: Taylor Swift’s First Cat

Meredith Grey is the first of Taylor Swift’s three well-known cats. She joined Swift’s family in 2011 and was named after the central character in the medical drama Grey’s Anatomy.

Meredith became part of Swift’s public image as the singer occasionally shared glimpses of her life with the cat. Her name is particularly recognizable among television fans because it combines a common first name with a surname closely associated with a long-running drama series.

Who Is Meredith Grey?

Meredith Grey is a fictional surgeon from Grey’s Anatomy, the medical drama created by Shonda Rhimes. The character, portrayed by Ellen Pompeo, is introduced as a surgical intern and develops into one of the show’s central figures.

The character is known for her determination, complicated personal life, and growth throughout the series. These qualities have helped make Meredith Grey a familiar name among television viewers.

Swift adopted her cat in 2011, when Grey’s Anatomy was already an established television series. Naming a pet after a recognizable character gave the cat a name that was meaningful to fans of the show.

Meredith is also an example of how a celebrity pet can become recognizable without having a separate public career. Her association with Swift and the television reference behind her name are enough to make her memorable.

Why Did Taylor Swift Name Her Cat Meredith Grey?

The name directly references the Grey’s Anatomy character. It is a pop-culture-inspired choice rather than a traditional cat name based on fur color, size, or personality.

There is an important distinction between the documented reference and assumptions about Swift’s personal reasoning. The character connection is clear, but it is best not to invent a detailed explanation about why Swift selected that particular name beyond its entertainment association.

Meredith Grey also works well as a pet name because it has several natural variations. Owners can use the full name when introducing their cat and a shorter version in everyday conversation.

Here are some variations inspired by Meredith’s name:

• Meredith: A complete, elegant name that works well for a female cat.
• Merry: A short, cheerful nickname.
• Grey: A simple choice for a cat with gray fur, although the name suits cats of any color.
• Meri: A softer, shorter variation.
• Dr. Grey: A playful option for a cat with a serious expression.

These alternatives preserve the original reference while allowing owners to choose something easier to call across a room.

What Breed Is Meredith Grey?

Meredith Grey is widely reported to be a Scottish Fold. This breed is known for its distinctive folded ears, which give many Scottish Folds a rounded facial appearance.

Scottish Fold kittens are born with straight ears. The characteristic fold develops in kittens that carry the genetic variant associated with the breed’s ear cartilage.

However, the same genetic variant is associated with osteochondrodysplasia, a disorder that can affect cartilage and bone development. It can cause joint pain, stiffness, and mobility problems. The severity varies, but the welfare concerns are important for anyone considering this breed.

Scottish Folds are often described as having rounded heads and large-looking eyes. Their coats may be short or long, and they come in many colors and patterns.

For prospective cat owners, appearance should not be the only consideration. Responsible veterinary guidance, careful attention to mobility, and an understanding of inherited health risks are essential when choosing any cat.

Olivia Benson: The Cat Named After a TV Detective

Olivia Benson is Taylor Swift’s second well-known cat. She joined the family in 2014 and takes her name from one of the most recognizable detectives in American television.

Her namesake is Detective Olivia Benson from Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Played by Mariska Hargitay, the character is known for her investigative work and commitment to helping victims.

The cat’s name combines a familiar first name with a television character’s surname. It is a strong example of how fans can create a memorable pet name by borrowing a full name from a favorite show.

When Did Taylor Swift Adopt Olivia Benson?

Olivia joined Swift’s family in 2014, three years after Meredith. Her arrival gave Swift two cats with names inspired by popular television characters.

The two cats share a Scottish Fold breed identification, but their individual personalities should not be assumed to be identical. Breed can influence physical characteristics, yet every cat has its own preferences, habits, and temperament.

Olivia has also appeared in public-facing projects associated with Swift. These appearances helped make her name familiar even to people who do not follow the singer’s personal life closely.

For fans, Olivia represents another approach to naming a cat after a fictional character. Instead of choosing a fantasy name or a common pet name, an owner can select a recognizable character whose name already carries a story.

Who Is Olivia Benson Named After?

Olivia Benson is named after Detective Olivia Benson from Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, often called SVU. The character has been portrayed by Mariska Hargitay since the show’s debut in 1999.

Within the series, Benson investigates crimes involving sexual violence and supports survivors. Over time, the character progresses through different professional roles, becoming a central figure in the show’s long-running story.

The television connection gives Swift’s cat a name that is recognizable, strong, and easy to remember. It also creates an amusing contrast: a fictional detective investigates serious cases, while her feline namesake is a household pet.

In 2015, Mariska Hargitay met Swift’s cat, creating a memorable connection between the fictional character’s performer and the cat named after her role.

If you like Olivia Benson as a cat name, you can use the full name or adapt it into a shorter nickname.

• Olivia: A classic name that suits many cats.
• Liv: A brief, easy-to-call variation.
• Livvy: A friendly nickname.
• Benson: A distinctive choice that works for cats of any sex.
• Detective Liv: A playful option for a curious cat that likes to investigate every corner of the home.

The full name is particularly suitable for fans of SVU, while shorter versions work well for everyday use.

What Breed Is Olivia Benson?

Olivia Benson is also widely reported to be a Scottish Fold. Her reported breed connects her with Meredith, although that does not mean the two cats necessarily look or behave exactly alike.

Scottish Folds are known for their rounded facial appearance and folded ears. Some have dense, plush coats, while others have longer coats. Their colors and markings vary, so the breed is not limited to gray or white cats.

One important point for anyone inspired by Olivia’s appearance is the breed’s health. The genetic change responsible for folded ears affects cartilage beyond the ears, and it can lead to painful skeletal problems.

Anyone thinking about bringing home a Scottish Fold should speak with a qualified veterinarian and research the breed’s welfare concerns before making a decision. Adopting a cat based on its appearance alone can overlook important long-term care needs.

A name inspired by Olivia does not require a Scottish Fold, either. The name can suit a domestic shorthair, a rescue kitten, or any other cat whose owner enjoys the television reference.

Benjamin Button: The Cat From the “ME!” Music Video

Benjamin Button is Taylor Swift’s third well-known cat. He became part of her family in 2019 after meeting Swift during the production of her “ME!” music video, featuring Brendon Urie of Panic! at the Disco.

Unlike Meredith and Olivia, Benjamin is associated with a movie character rather than a television character. His name references the central character in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, a story about a man who ages in reverse.

His adoption story is one of the most distinctive parts of Swift’s public history with her cats. A kitten encountered during a creative project eventually became a permanent member of her household.

How Did Taylor Swift Meet Benjamin Button?

Swift met Benjamin while working on the “ME!” music video in 2019. The kitten was involved in the production, and Swift later brought him home as a pet.

The story shows how a brief encounter can lead to a lasting connection. It also explains why Benjamin’s name and early story are closely linked to Swift’s entertainment work.

Benjamin’s arrival completed the trio of cats most closely associated with the singer. His name stands apart from the other two because it comes from a film rather than a television drama.

The year 2019 is also a useful reference point for readers trying to distinguish the cats’ adoption timelines:

• 2011: Meredith Grey joined Swift’s family.
• 2014: Olivia Benson joined the family.
• 2019: Benjamin Button became part of the household.

These dates provide a straightforward overview without requiring readers to piece together each cat’s history from separate accounts.

Why Is He Named Benjamin Button?

Benjamin Button is named after the title character of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. The film, released in 2008, stars Brad Pitt as Benjamin Button and Cate Blanchett as Daisy Fuller.

The story follows a man who experiences the effects of aging in reverse. Born with the physical appearance of an elderly man, he becomes younger in appearance as time passes.

The unusual premise makes Benjamin Button a memorable name. It is especially suitable for people who prefer names connected to books, films, and characters rather than traditional animal names.

The name can also be shortened without losing its connection to the original character.

• Benjamin: A formal name that works well on its own.
• Benji: A friendly, familiar nickname.
• Ben: A short and practical everyday option.
• Button: A cute choice that also works as a standalone pet name.
• Benny: An affectionate variation.

These names illustrate why movie-inspired pet names can be versatile. The full version preserves the reference, while a nickname can make the name feel more personal.

What Breed Is Benjamin Button?

Benjamin Button is widely reported to be a Ragdoll. Ragdolls are known for their semi-long coats, blue eyes, and colorpoint patterns, although individual appearances vary.

The breed often has a large, sturdy build and a soft coat that requires regular grooming. Many Ragdolls are described as sociable and people-oriented, but breed descriptions are general tendencies rather than guarantees about an individual cat.

Ragdolls commonly have darker coloring on the ears, face, paws, and tail, with a lighter body. Their coats may develop more fully as they mature.

For owners interested in a Ragdoll, regular brushing helps manage loose fur and reduce tangles. Routine veterinary care, appropriate nutrition, play, and a comfortable indoor environment also contribute to a cat’s well-being.

Benjamin’s reported breed is part of his public identity, but a breed label alone cannot tell you everything about a cat’s personality. His individual habits and preferences should be understood on their own terms.

Taylor Swift’s Cats in Music Videos and Pop Culture

Taylor Swift’s cats have become recognizable partly because they appear in public moments connected to her music and career. These appearances give fans a glimpse of the cats while also creating opportunities for their names and stories to reach a wider audience.

The cats are not simply interchangeable celebrity pets. Each has a separate name origin and a different connection to popular entertainment.

The Cats’ Appearance in the “ME!” Music Video

The “ME!” music video, released in 2019, is an important part of Benjamin Button’s story. Swift met him during production, and the kitten later became her pet.

This connection makes the video more than a musical release in the context of her cat ownership. It is part of the documented story of how Benjamin entered her life.

The video’s bright, theatrical style also fits the playful nature of its title and presentation. Benjamin’s connection to the production remains a memorable detail for fans who want to understand how Swift’s third cat came into the family.

It is important, however, to distinguish the documented adoption story from speculation about the cat’s personality or role in Swift’s private life. Public appearances do not reveal every detail about an animal’s daily routine.

Olivia Benson’s Other Public Appearances

Olivia Benson has appeared in commercial and promotional projects associated with Swift. Her visibility has helped make her name familiar beyond the singer’s immediate fan community.

In 2015, Olivia met Mariska Hargitay, the actor who plays the television detective after whom she was named. The meeting created a direct connection between the fictional character’s performer and Swift’s cat.

Celebrity pets can become memorable in much the same way as characters in films and television shows. A recognizable name, a public appearance, and a clear story behind the name can make a pet stand out.

Still, Olivia’s identity as a cat should remain separate from the fictional detective’s story. The two share a name, but one is a television character and the other is a real animal.

Benjamin Button on the TIME Person of the Year Cover

Benjamin Button appeared with Swift on the cover of TIME magazine when she was named its 2023 Person of the Year. The cover became another widely recognized public moment involving one of her cats.

This appearance reinforced Benjamin’s place in Swift-related pop culture. It also introduced his name and image to readers who might not otherwise have followed the story of her pets.

The cover is a useful example of how celebrity animals can become part of a public figure’s image without being entertainers in their own right. Their visibility comes from their association with a person, a moment, or a recognizable story.

For fans researching Swift’s cats, this appearance is one of the most memorable facts connected to Benjamin.

Taylor Swift Cat Names: Ideas for Your Own Pet

The names Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson, and Benjamin Button offer inspiration for cat owners who enjoy television, movies, and celebrity culture. Each name is based on a recognizable fictional character, yet each can be adapted to suit a pet’s everyday life.

You do not need to copy a celebrity’s exact choice to use the same idea. You can choose a character’s first name, borrow a surname, or create a nickname inspired by a title.

Names Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Cats

Here are some name ideas drawn directly from the three cats’ names.

Meredith-inspired names

• Meredith
• Merry
• Meri
• Grey
• Dr. Grey

Olivia-inspired names

• Olivia
• Liv
• Livvy
• Benson
• Detective Liv

Benjamin-inspired names

• Benjamin
• Benji
• Benny
• Ben
• Button

These variations provide different styles, from formal full names to short, playful nicknames. They can work for kittens and adult cats alike.

The names do not have to match the sex of the original character or celebrity cat. Benson, Grey, Button, and Benji can all be used creatively, depending on what feels right for your pet.

How to Choose a Taylor Swift-Inspired Cat Name

A good cat name should be memorable, comfortable to say, and suitable for daily use. A pop-culture reference can make it more meaningful, especially if you have a strong connection to the show or movie behind it.

Consider these practical tips when choosing a name:

• Start with the character: Choose a name from a television series or movie you genuinely enjoy.
• Try a shorter version: A full name such as Benjamin Button can become Benji or Button.
• Say it aloud: Test the name in ordinary situations, such as calling your cat for dinner.
• Consider the cat’s individuality: A curious cat might inspire a detective-themed nickname, but let its actual behavior guide your choice.
• Think about long-term use: Pick a name you will still enjoy when your kitten becomes an adult cat.
• Keep it distinct: A name that sounds different from common household commands may be easier to use consistently.

For example, a fan of Grey’s Anatomy might choose Meredith for a calm, observant cat. Someone who loves Law & Order: SVU might prefer Benson, while a film enthusiast might choose Button after The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.

These are naming ideas, not rules. The best choice is one that feels natural to you and suits the individual cat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What are Taylor Swift’s cats’ names?

Taylor Swift has three famous cats: Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson, and Benjamin Button. Their names are inspired by popular television and film characters.

Q2. What breed are Taylor Swift’s cats?

Meredith Grey and Olivia Benson are Scottish Fold cats, while Benjamin Button is a Ragdoll. Each has become recognizable through Swift’s public appearances and social media.

Q3. Why did Taylor Swift name her cat Meredith Grey?

Taylor Swift named Meredith Grey after Dr. Meredith Grey, the main character in the medical drama Grey’s Anatomy. The name reflects Swift’s interest in television and pop culture.

Q4. Who is Olivia Benson named after?

Olivia Benson is named after Detective Olivia Benson, a character played by Mariska Hargitay in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.

Q5. How did Taylor Swift get Benjamin Button?

Taylor Swift met Benjamin Button while filming the “ME!” music video in 2019. She later adopted him, and he became her third well-known cat.

Q6. Did Taylor Swift’s cats appear in her music videos?

Yes. Benjamin Button appeared in the “ME!” music video in 2019. Her cats have also featured in social media posts and other public appearances.

Q7. What are some Taylor Swift-inspired cat names?

You can use Meredith, Olivia, or Benjamin directly, or choose names inspired by Swift’s music and pop culture, such as Willow, Karma, August, or Archer. Pick one that feels right for your cat’s personality.

Conclusion

Taylor Swift’s cats, Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson, and Benjamin Button, have become famous for their unique names and memorable public appearances. Each name has a story inspired by television or film characters, making them great examples of celebrity-inspired cat names. Whether you’re a Swiftie or simply looking for a creative name for your cat, Taylor Swift’s feline companions offer plenty of inspiration. Choose a name that suits your cat’s personality and gives your furry friend a special identity.