10 Best Cats With Big Ears

By Jackie Brown
Updated on 03/17/21
Siamese cat on a bed

Sasha L'Estrange-Bell / Getty Images

In the wild, oversized ears serve important functions for animals’ survival. For instance, feline ears act like satellite dishes, helping wild cats detect the tiniest sounds while hunting. Most domesticated cats use their impressive ears to listen for their favorite people coming home, the crinkle of a treat bag, or the jingle of a toy. The cat breeds with large ears vary in appearance and personality. Some are quite spunky, athletic, and active while others are more calm and cuddly.

Here are 10 cat breeds with especially large ears.

Tip

Cats are excellent groomers, but periodic checks of their ears for cleanliness are still essential for their health. Monitor for excessive wax, dirt, and abnormal smells. And have your veterinarian show you how to clean your cat's ears.

  • 01 of 10

    Abyssinian

    Abyssinian cat on a bed

    Josef Timar / Getty Images

    The Abyssinian’s ears outstretch to each side as though they're always listening to something. This is one of the oldest cat breeds, though its origin is unclear. Its ancestors likely lived along the Indian Ocean, as well as in Southeast Asia. Modern day Abyssinian cats are intelligent, playful, and highly active. And they love to be the center of attention.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 8 to 10 inches

    Weight: 8 to 12 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Tall, pointy ears; wedge-shaped head; slender, muscular body

  • 02 of 10

    Balinese

    Balinese cat lying on side

    Jane Burton / Getty Images

    The Balinese, which sports large triangular ears, likely originated from a genetic mutation that created a longhaired version of the Siamese cat breed. Lithe and muscular, the breed's silky coat lies close to the body and resists matting. These cats are typically affectionate, playful, and chatty. They love hanging out with their families, and they often get along with children and other pets.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 6 to 7 inches

    Weight: 8 to 12 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Wedge-shaped head; slender body; blue eyes

  • 03 of 10

    Chausie

    Chausie cat in a field

    Wilczakrew / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

    The Chausie’s tall, wide ears are set at a slight outward angle. This hybrid cat breed was developed in the 1990s from crosses between Abyssinians and jungle cats. Although today’s Chausie is more “wild at heart” than wild, the breed is far from a lap cat. Most prefer lots of attention and interactive play to lounging around the house. 

    Breed Overview

    Height: 14 to 18 inches

    Weight: 15 to 30 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Long, tall body; elongated snout; large, sometimes tufted ears

  • 04 of 10

    Cornish Rex

    white Cornish Rex on a leash

    wildcat78 / Getty Images

    With its distinctive wavy coat and large, slender, bat-like ears, the Cornish Rex is a delight to behold. The breed gets its name from its place of origin—Cornwall, England—where a kitten with a genetic mutation for a wavy coat was born. Today, these cats are generally intelligent, active, and outgoing. They prefer lots of social interaction but usually aren't gentle lap cats.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 12 to 14 inches

    Weight: 6 to 10 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Curved body; high cheekbones; large ears

    Continue to 5 of 10 below.
  • 05 of 10

    Devon Rex

    Devon Rex cat staring at camera

    Troydays / Getty Images

    The Devon Rex’s enormous ears lend to its “elfin” look and impish expression. This breed is highly social and fun-loving, and some people even describe it as dog-like. With its small build and spunky personality, this cat tends to look and act like a kitten throughout most of its life. The Devon Rex’s coat is soft and wavy, appearing to ripple when you pet it.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 10 to 12 inches

    Weight: 8 to 10 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Large ears; slender neck; prominent eyes

  • 06 of 10

    Egyptian Mau

    Egyptian Mau cat outdoors sitting up on hind legs

    Lisa Beattie / Getty Images

    The Egyptian Mau has broad ears that curve slightly forward, giving the cat an alert expression. This breed’s ancestors likely came from ancient Egyptian wild cats, and it's the only domesticated cat breed with a natural spotted coat pattern. These athletic cats are notoriously good sprinters and love to climb. Interactive play is important to keep their minds and bodies busy.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 8 to 10 inches

    Weight: 7 to 9 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Long, muscular body; green eyes; large ears

  • 07 of 10

    Oriental

    Oriental shorthair in cat hammock

    Anna Pozzi / Getty Images

    The Oriental was created from the Siamese, so it’s no surprise this breed has the same prominent, triangle-shaped ears as its cousin. It looks much like the Siamese but comes in even more coat varieties. This fun-loving breed is naturally athletic and playful, and it tends to bond very strongly to its favorite humans.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 8 to 10 inches

    Weight: 6 to 12 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Sleek body; angular head; large ears; almond-shaped eyes

  • 08 of 10

    Savannah

    Savannah cat

    Jason Douglas / Wikimedia Commons

    The Savannah cat is a cross between domestic cats and wild African servals. And the Savannah’s big, tall ears are very much a part of the breed’s overall wild look. These cats are also somewhat wild in demeanor. While they typically love their families and often demand attention, they're also highly intelligent and energetic. It takes a lot to keep them physically and mentally exercised.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 12 to 14 inches

    Weight: 20 to 30 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Tall, lean body; erect ears; golden coat with dark spots and bars

    Continue to 9 of 10 below.
  • 09 of 10

    Siamese

    Siamese kitten in grass

    Kacy Kizer / Getty Images

    The Siamese is a sleek cat with prominent ears typically in a darker color than the majority of its coat. Sweet and spirited, this breed has been popular with cat lovers since the late 1800s. These cats are known for their vocalizations and will "chat" with their humans day and night, especially when they have an opinion to express. They like to be the center of attention and prefer company throughout the day. 

    Breed Overview

    Height: 8 to 10 inches

    Weight: 8 to 10 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Sleek body; almond-shaped eyes; wedge-shaped head

  • 10 of 10

    Sphynx

    Sphynx cat looking alert

    Grove Pashley / Getty Images

    With their wrinkled skin and prominent features, Sphynx cats make a statement. Many of these hairless cats actually have a downy fuzz covering some or all of their bodies. But it's their huge ears and eyes compared to the rest of their head that really draws attention. They're generally friendly and cuddly cats (especially for warmth), and they're known to entertain their humans with clownish antics.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 8 to 10 inches

    Weight: 10 to 12 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Hairless; wrinkled head; lean build

12 Most Popular Cat Breeds for Feline Lovers
Featured Video