10 Big-Eared Cat Breeds That Will Steal Your Heart
Different cat breeds have varying characteristics that make them unique, and some breeds feature cats with big ears. 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 ten cat breeds with big ears.
01 of 10
Abyssinian
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
02 of 10
Balinese
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
03 of 10
Chausie
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
04 of 10
Cornish Rex
With a 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
05 of 10
Devon Rex
The Devon rex’s enormous ears lend to an “elfin” look and impish expression. Their coat is soft and wavy, appearing to ripple when you pet it.
This breed is highly social and fun-loving, and some people even describe this cat as dog-like. With their small build and spunky personality, they tend to look and act like a kitten throughout most of their life.
Breed Overview
06 of 10
Egyptian Mau
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
07 of 10
Oriental
The Oriental was created from the Siamese, so it’s no surprise this breed has the same prominent, triangle-shaped ears as its cousin. This cat looks much like the Siamese but comes in even more coat varieties.
This fun-loving kitty is naturally athletic and playful, and tends to bond very strongly to their favorite humans.
Breed Overview
08 of 10
Savannah
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 with big ears 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
09 of 10
Siamese
The Siamese is a sleek cat with big ears typically in a darker color than the majority of the 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
10 of 10
Sphynx
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
Breed Characteristics
Cats with big ears have an eye-catching appearance, and they use those ears to hear extremely well. It is no wonder that these felines are so good at hunting. You might be surprised by all of the things your big-eared cat can hear that you aren’t able to pick up on.
If you have a cat with big ears, be sure to check them often and on a regular basis. That way, you can see if they are healthy or if they are exhibiting any symptoms that require a trip to the veterinarian, such as odor, discharge, or inflammation. For example, cats can develop ear infections or parasites that would require treatment.
If your cat’s ears look dirty, clean them gently using a cat-specific ear cleaner, being careful to not cause any harm. Don’t use cotton swabs in your cat’s ears. Talk to a veterinarian or cat groomer if you aren’t sure how to properly and safely clean them.
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