These 11 surnames in Ukraine are exclusively given to cat lovers (list).

It is probably no secret that every Ukrainian surname was once a common nickname given for certain distinctive traits or characteristics. Thus, just from a surname, one can learn something intriguing about their ancestors. For instance, some surnames were previously assigned to those who had a great affection for cats or exhibited feline behaviors.

"Telegraph" analyzed the registries and discovered how many such Ukrainians are registered today.

We were able to identify 11 surnames associated with the feline family:

• Kotenko. This surname is shared by 8,596 people in Ukraine, with the majority residing in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Sumy.
• Kotik. This surname is held by 4,863 Ukrainians, and it is most popular in Kyiv, Lviv, and Chernivtsi.

• Kit. There are 4,332 individuals in Ukraine with this surname, most commonly found in Lviv, Kyiv, and Ternopil.
• Levko. Although this surname is generally associated with bravery and courage, it could also be given to those who loved red cats. It is carried by 2,219 Ukrainians, particularly prevalent in Lviv and Zakarpattia regions.
• Kotovych. This surname is held by 1,685 people, most frequently found in Odesa, Lviv, and Tatarbunary.
• Kitsya. 325 Ukrainians have this surname, notably popular in Kherson and Volyn regions.

• Kitchenko. There are 311 individuals in Ukraine with this surname.
• Murko, Murka. Around 300 Ukrainians share these surnames, mainly found in Zaporizhzhia and Sumy regions.
• Kitska, Kotovyi. These are quite rare surnames, currently held by only 53 and 38 individuals in Ukraine, respectively.

As a reminder, "Telegraph" previously discussed which Ukrainian surnames embody the true spirit of Christmas and New Year.