Understanding Polydactyl Cats: Unique Felines with Extra Toes
Polydactyl cats—sometimes called mitten cats or Hemingway cats—stand out for one quirky reason: they have more toes than the standard feline. While most cats sport eighteen toes (five on each front paw and four on each back), polydactyls can boast as many as seven toes per paw, and in rare cases, an astonishing twenty-eight in total.
What Causes Polydactyly?
This distinctive trait comes from a dominant gene mutation. If just one parent carries the gene, some kittens in the litter may inherit extra digits. The condition is hereditary and not tied to any particular breed, though it shows up more frequently in certain areas and among certain types of cats.
- The mutation affects the ZRS regulatory region, influencing the sonic hedgehog (SHH) gene crucial for limb development.
- Different mutations can lead to various expressions—from a single extra toe to several on each foot.
Types of Extra Toes
You’ll see three main types of polydactyl paws:
- Preaxial: Extra toes on the inner (thumb) side.
- Postaxial: Extra toes along the outer (pinky) edge.
- Mesoaxial: Extra digits sprouting from the middle of the paw.
The extra digits aren’t always symmetrical or paired; sometimes they’re small nubs, other times fully formed and functional toes. Most often, you’ll spot them on the front paws, but some cats have them on their hind feet—or all four paws.
Caring for Polydactyl Cats
The condition rarely causes harm. However, some extra toes may not be well attached to bones and could be prone to injury. Occasionally, if an extra digit causes pain or recurrent infection, veterinarians might recommend removal. For most owners, though, care simply means paying attention to those unique feet:
- Nail trims are essential—some claws don’t touch the ground and can overgrow into paw pads.
- Check between toes for dirt or debris that might cause infection.
- If you notice limping, swelling, or changes in your cat’s walk, consult your vet promptly.
A Bit of History and Folklore
Sailors once prized polydactyl cats. They believed broader paws helped these felines catch rodents and balance better aboard ships—and they considered them good luck at sea. This belief helped spread the trait worldwide as ships traveled from Boston and Britain. Ernest Hemingway famously kept many polydactyl cats at his Key West home after receiving one from a ship’s captain; today, their descendants still roam his former residence.
Breadth of Occurrence
You’ll find polydactyl cats most commonly along North America’s East Coast (especially Massachusetts and Key West), southwest England, Wales, and parts of Canada. The trait isn’t rare—particularly among Maine Coons and Pixiebobs—but any cat can be born with extra toes. In early Maine Coons, nearly 40% were polydactyl until selective breeding reduced their numbers. The so-called "American Polydactyl" isn’t a distinct breed but refers to U.S.-descended lines with this trait.
Lifestyle and Longevity
Polydactyly doesn’t typically affect a cat’s mobility or lifespan. Most live just as happily as their eighteen-toed peers. Problems only arise if an extra toe is abnormally structured or positioned; then you might see issues like pain or awkward walking. With proper nail care and regular checks for injury or infection, these unique felines thrive—and often charm everyone with their unusual paws.
Cultural Myths vs Reality
- Polydactyl cats aren’t especially rare nor inherently more valuable than other cats—unless combined with purebred status.
- Their extra toes don’t interfere with daily life when cared for properly.
If you’re lucky enough to share your home with one of these special cats—or meet one at a shelter—you’ll quickly learn why so many people find their mitten-like feet irresistible!
