Sony Says ‘Naughty Cat’ Is Too Close to ‘Naughty Dog’ in Trademark Showdown

When is a cat too close to a dog? When Sony says so. In a case that’s raising eyebrows and a few smirks across the gaming community, Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has filed a formal opposition to the trademark application for ‘Naughty Cat,’ claiming it’s too similar to its well-established brand, ‘Naughty Dog.’

The opposition, submitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), targets Hong Kong-based Naughty Cat Co., Limited, which runs gambling-style apps that offer real money rewards. Though a far cry from story-driven blockbusters like The Last of Us or Uncharted, Sony argues that the “Naughty Cat” name might still confuse consumers – purely on the basis that both names begin with ‘Naughty’ and end with common household pets.

According to the filing, Sony believes that “DOG” and “CAT” are “highly similar,” since both refer to domestic animals. The core of their argument? The combination of “Naughty” + pet gives off a similar “commercial impression.” Sony fears consumers might assume Naughty Cat is a spin-off, parody, or somehow affiliated with the creators of Ellie and Joel.

“The first, dominant element of the two marks, NAUGHTY, is identical,” Sony’s lawyers emphasized, arguing that pet associations could lead to brand dilution or confusion – especially among casual consumers or app users not deeply entrenched in gaming culture.

While it’s understandable that companies want to defend their trademarks, critics argue this might be taking things a bit too far. Many see it as an overreach, drawing attention to the fact that other businesses with identical names – like the two Avalanche game studios – have coexisted without legal drama.

On the flip side, some users point out that brand protection is part of doing business, and companies can’t afford to let any possible overlap slip through – even if it means arguing that cats and dogs are “highly similar.” That might sound absurd, but it could be Sony’s only legal foothold in an otherwise weak case.

For now, Naughty Cat Co. has until July 12 to respond. If they don’t, Sony could win by default. If they do, the dispute could drag on until 2026, when it might head to trial. Until then, the gaming world watches – half amused, half baffled – as this trademark tussle plays out.

Meanwhile, Naughty Dog is reportedly busy on a new sci-fi title, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, and an unannounced second project. No word yet on whether cats will be featured – but if so, someone better double-check the trademark list first.