What breed of domestic cat is known for its large size and tufted ears?

The domestic cat breed known for its large size and tufted ears is the Maine Coon. It is one of North America’s oldest established cat breeds and is strongly associated with the state of Maine, where it is the official state cat.

Maine Coons developed a long, dense, weather-resistant coat suited to cold winters. Their large paws, often furnished with tufts between the toes, help insulate the feet and are sometimes compared with snowshoes. Tufts of fur inside and around the ears provide additional protection from cold and are a distinctive feature of the breed.

Maine Coons are slow to reach full physical maturity, commonly taking three to five years. Adult males are generally larger than females, and the breed’s long, bushy tail adds substantially to its overall length. Their social, easygoing reputation has earned them the nickname “gentle giants.”

Other northern breeds, including the Norwegian Forest Cat and Siberian, can also have large bodies and ear tufts. Those similarities reflect adaptation to harsh climates, but the combination described in this question most specifically identifies the Maine Coon.