Why are Cats Called Moggies?

The term “moggy” or “moggie” is primarily used in the UK to describe a non-pedigree or mixed-breed cat, essentially a domestic cat of unknown ancestry. But where did that term originate? Let’s look at why cats are called moggies!

The Origin of the Term “Moggies”

Like many things about our mysterious cats, the origin of the term “Moggies” is a bit unclear and seems to have a somewhat vague history–but there are several theories!

Margaret

Some believe that Moggy could be a contraction or variation of “Margaret”, which was used similarly to how we might use “Molly” to refer to a generic cow or “Tabby” for a female cat. In this case, “Moggy” could have been a term used to describe a generic cat.

Moggy Catcher?

In some parts of the UK, primarily Lancashire and Cumbria, the term “moggy” was historically used to refer to a mouse or rat.

The term “moggy catcher” would logically follow as a term for a cat, given their well-known propensity for hunting mice and rats.

This kind of regional variation and evolution in language can sometimes lead to a word having multiple meanings or shifting meanings over time. It’s certainly plausible that the term “moggy” could have evolved from a word for mouse to a word for a cat, especially given the cat’s role in controlling rodent populations.

M Mark on Forehead

Others believe moggy (or moggie, as some spell it) came about because of the “M” mark on the forehead of many Tabby cats.

Moggie as in Mongrel?

OK, now this theory is straying into pejorative territory. Some people believe that moggie maybe be derived from the word mongrel. “Mongrel” is a term historically used to describe an animal, especially a dog, of mixed or indeterminate breed. Given that “moggie” is used to describe non-pedigree or mixed-breed cats, it’s easy to imagine that the term might have originated as a reference to the “mongrel.”

Regardless of how it originated, Moggie has long been a British term for non-purebred cats. And for over half a century, Mog has been the chief character in the very popular Mog the Forgetful Cat, a children’s book written by Judith Kerr who went on to write 17 other books about the beloved cat.

What Other Terms are Used for Cats in the UK?

Regardless of its origin, it’s now widely accepted and used to describe non-pedigree cats in the UK and in some other English-speaking areas. What other terms are used for cats?

Tom – Often used to refer to a male cat.
Queen – A term used for a female cat, especially in the context of breeding.
Kitty/Kitten – Common terms used to refer to young cats, though “kitty” can sometimes be used affectionately for cats of all ages.
Mouser – Sometimes used to describe a cat that is known for catching mice.
Tabby – While technically a term to describe a coat pattern, it’s sometimes colloquially used to refer to cats in general, especially if they have that specific coat pattern.
Feline – A more formal or scientific term for cats.
Gib – A somewhat older term for a neutered male cat.
Malkin – An archaic term, historically used to refer to a cat, though it’s not commonly used in modern times.
Puss – A shortened version of “pussycat“, and an affectionate term for a cat. “Pussycat” is a more traditional and somewhat formal term, which might be used in literature, nursery rhymes, and other creative works. It also can be used as a term of endearment.