Sony vs Naughty Cat: Trademark Dispute Over ‘Cat’ & ‘Dog
- Sony is challenging the "Naughty cat" trademark application filed by a Hong Kong-based mobile game studio, arguing that the name is too similar to its "Naughty Dog" gaming...
- Sony contends that the shared use of the word "Naughty," combined with "Dog" and "Cat" both referring to domestic pets, creates a "confusingly similar" impression.
- "The first, dominant element of the two marks, NAUGHTY, is identical," Sony said.
Sony is taking a firm stand, challenging the “Naughty Cat” trademark. The entertainment giant, known for its critically acclaimed “Naughty Dog” studio, alleges potential consumer confusion caused by the similar branding. The dispute is now under review by the U.S.Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), as Sony moves to protect its intellectual property. The company fears that the shared “Naughty” nomenclature, coupled with the use of animal names, may mislead consumers into believing an affiliation exists between Sony and the Hong Kong-based mobile game developer. News Directory 3 is following this vital story. Naughty Cat Co., Limited, has until July 12 to respond to Sony’s opposition, setting the stage for what’s coming next. Discover what’s next …
Sony Opposes ‘Naughty Cat’ Trademark, Citing ‘Naughty Dog’ Confusion Risk
Updated June 25, 2025
Sony is challenging the “Naughty cat” trademark application filed by a Hong Kong-based mobile game studio, arguing that the name is too similar to its “Naughty Dog” gaming studio and could mislead consumers. The dispute is currently before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
Sony contends that the shared use of the word “Naughty,” combined with “Dog” and “Cat” both referring to domestic pets, creates a “confusingly similar” impression. The company fears consumers might mistakenly believe “Naughty Cat” is affiliated with or endorsed by Sony Interactive Entertainment or Naughty Dog.
“The first, dominant element of the two marks, NAUGHTY, is identical,” Sony said. “The second elements, DOG and CAT, are highly similar in that both refer to house pets and are likely to mislead consumers into believing, mistakenly, that Naughty Cat is affiliated with SIE and/or Naughty Dog or that its goods are licensed or approved by SIE and/or Naughty Dog.”
The hong Kong company, Naughty Cat Co.,Limited,has until July 12 to respond to Sony’s opposition. Their app store listings feature gambling games that reward users with real cash, a stark contrast to Naughty dog’s popular titles like “The Last of Us” and “Uncharted.”
Sony argues that allowing the “Naughty Cat” trademark would damage its brand and confuse the public, leading them to incorrectly assume a connection between the two entities. The company emphasizes that registration of the “Naughty Cat” mark would imply an unauthorized affiliation or endorsement.
“Registration of Applicant’s mark will lead the public incorrectly, that Applicant is or has been affiliated or connected with SIE, and/or that Applicant’s goods provided under Applicant’s Mark are or have been authorized, sponsored, endorsed, or licensed by SIE. Issuance of any registration to Applicant for the proposed mark will result in damage to SIE and the public.”
What’s next
The USPTO has set a schedule for both parties to resolve the trademark dispute. Naughty Cat Co., Limited, must respond to Sony’s opposition by July 12. The outcome will determine weather the Hong Kong-based studio can register its name in the United States.