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Cat Breeds With Tufted Ears

Ear tufts are tufts of fur on the tips of the ears, rather like a lynx’s. They help keep the ears warm and clean.

  1. Cartoon of a Maine Coon cat

    1. Maine Coon

    Lynx-like tufts and a shaggy ruff.

    Large · Usually 12 to 15 years

    Read the Maine Coon guide →
  2. Cartoon of a Norwegian Forest Cat cat

    2. Norwegian Forest Cat

    Tufted ears on a weatherproof coat.

    Large · Usually 12 to 16 years

    Read the Norwegian Forest Cat guide →
  3. Cartoon of a Siberian cat

    3. Siberian

    Thick tufts and a round, sturdy build.

    Medium to large · Often 11 to 15 years

    Read the Siberian guide →
  4. Cartoon of a Pixie-bob cat

    4. Pixie-bob

    Tufted ears and a bobbed tail.

    Medium to large · Often 13 to 15 years

    Read the Pixie-bob guide →

Breed is only part of the story: every cat is an individual, and most cats in the UK are moggies. Meet the cat before you decide, and think about rescue cats too. This is a friendly overview, not veterinary advice.

Questions people ask

Why do some cats have ear tufts?

They keep the ears warm and keep out dirt and snow, a useful adaptation for cold climates.

Should I trim my cat’s ear tufts?

Generally no. Ask your groomer or vet if the fur becomes matted.