Whether alert like a radar dish or elegantly fanned out like butterfly wings, large ears give certain cat breeds an unforgettable silhouette. But these big ears aren’t just for show—they also tell us a lot about the breed’s origin, personality, and lifestyle needs. From heat-adapted desert cats to chatterboxes with sharp hearing, here are ten cat breeds with large ears, each ready to charm your socks off.
1. Abyssinian
Snapshot
- Size: 8–12 lbs
- Energy level: High
- Grooming needs: Low
- Temperament: Curious, active, social
The Abyssinian is often considered one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds. Their tall, cupped ears were shaped by evolution in warm climates like Egypt, where large ears helped them dissipate heat.
Why they stand out:
Abyssinians are all about movement. Their ears seem to twitch in tandem with their endless curiosity—always alert, always ready for the next adventure.
Care tip:
Interactive toys and vertical climbing spaces are musts for these energetic explorers.
2. Oriental Shorthair
Snapshot
- Size: 6–10 lbs
- Energy level: High
- Grooming needs: Low
- Temperament: Talkative, intelligent, attention-loving
With ears so large they almost seem animated, the Oriental Shorthair is impossible to miss. A member of the Siamese family, this breed comes in over 300 coat colors and patterns.
Why they stand out:
Their bat-like ears enhance their expressive personalities—they don’t just talk, they emote with their entire face.
Pro tip:
Orientals get lonely. If you’re away often, consider adopting them in pairs or offering plenty of mental stimulation.
3. Cornish Rex
Snapshot
- Size: 6–10 lbs
- Energy level: Very high
- Grooming needs: Very low
- Temperament: Playful, sociable, dog-like
The Cornish Rex doesn’t just look unusual—it feels unusual. Its soft, curly coat and oversized ears make this breed both elegant and quirky.
Why they stand out:
Those large ears are paired with wide-set, curious eyes that make the Cornish Rex look permanently surprised. They’re the court jesters of the cat world.
Care note:
Due to their thin fur, they get cold easily—heated beds and cozy blankets are a must.
4. Devon Rex
Snapshot
- Size: 5–9 lbs
- Energy level: Moderate to high
- Grooming needs: Low
- Temperament: Affectionate, silly, social
Often confused with the Cornish Rex, the Devon Rex also has a short, soft coat and large, flared ears. But the Devon’s ears are even wider at the base, giving them a pixie-like look.
Why they stand out:
Devons love people. Their huge ears are always tuned into your voice—and they’ll follow you from room to room to stay connected.
Fun fact:
They’re often called “cat-dogs” for their loyalty and love of snuggling under the covers.
5. Sphynx
Snapshot
- Size: 6–12 lbs
- Energy level: High
- Grooming needs: Medium (due to oily skin)
- Temperament: Loving, confident, quirky
While best known for their hairlessness, Sphynx cats also sport some of the largest ears in the feline world—often taller than their head!
Why they stand out:
Big ears and no fur give the Sphynx an almost alien appearance, but their warmth and affection make them endlessly lovable.
Care tip:
Without fur to absorb oils, their skin needs regular wipes or baths. Also, don’t forget the ear-cleaning!
6. Savannah
Snapshot
- Size: 12–25 lbs
- Energy level: Very high
- Grooming needs: Low
- Temperament: Intelligent, bold, adventurous
A hybrid between domestic cats and wild African servals, the Savannah’s towering ears reflect its wild roots.
Why they stand out:
Those large, upright ears aren’t just for show—they contribute to their hyper-awareness and hunting instincts.
Important note:
Savannahs need tons of space, stimulation, and a confident owner. They’re not for first-time cat parents.
7. Siamese
Snapshot
- Size: 8–12 lbs
- Energy level: High
- Grooming needs: Low
- Temperament: Vocal, affectionate, social
A classic breed with deep blue eyes and creamy coats, Siamese cats have large, elegant ears that tilt slightly outward.
Why they stand out:
When a Siamese talks, those big ears turn in your direction like satellite dishes. They crave interaction and attention.
Care tip:
They do best in homes where someone is around often—they don’t like to be alone for long.
8. Balinese
Snapshot
- Size: 6–11 lbs
- Energy level: Moderate to high
- Grooming needs: Low
- Temperament: Friendly, graceful, clever
The Balinese is essentially a long-haired Siamese, and they share the same oversized ears. Their elegant coat adds to the overall fairytale vibe.
Why they stand out:
Those large ears combined with a flowing tail make them look like feathered dancers when they move.
9. Peterbald
Snapshot
- Size: 6–10 lbs
- Energy level: Moderate to high
- Grooming needs: Medium (depends on coat)
- Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, active
Originating in Russia, the Peterbald is a slim, graceful breed that can be bald, fuzzed, or coated—and always has enormous ears.
Why they stand out:
Even with minimal fur, Peterbalds exude elegance. Their large ears and long necks give them a striking silhouette.
Fun fact:
They’re known to “headbutt” affectionately and love sitting on shoulders.
10. Oriental Longhair
Snapshot
- Size: 6–10 lbs
- Energy level: High
- Grooming needs: Moderate
- Temperament: Curious, social, vocal
A close cousin of the Oriental Shorthair, the Oriental Longhair shares the same exaggerated ear size but with a flowing, silky coat.
Why they stand out:
Their ear-to-face ratio is one of the most dramatic in the cat world. They’re showstoppers.
Care note:
Regular brushing keeps that long coat tangle-free. They love attention, so grooming time becomes bonding time.
Why Do Some Cats Have Large Ears?
Large ears are often an adaptation to climate—desert-dwelling ancestors developed oversized ears to release heat. In breeds like the Sphynx or Oriental, this trait is enhanced for aesthetics and expressiveness. And yes, they do hear incredibly well—cats already hear at higher frequencies than dogs and humans.
Choosing the Right Big-Eared Cat for You
- Noise tolerance: Many big-eared cats are also very vocal.
- Grooming commitment: Hairless and long-haired breeds require more upkeep.
- Activity level: Energetic breeds like the Cornish Rex or Savannah need daily enrichment.
- Social needs: Siamese, Orientals, and Devons hate being alone.
Final Thoughts
Big ears aren’t just cute—they’re character. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek Oriental, the quirky Devon Rex, or the wild-looking Savannah, each of these cat breeds with large ears offers more than just good looks. They bring curiosity, energy, and big-hearted affection to the table.
If you’re ready for a feline who always looks like they’re listening (because they are), one of these breeds might just be your purr-fect match.
1 thought on “10 Cat Breeds With Large Ears That’ll Steal Your Heart”