Polydactyl cats are fascinating felines known for having extra toes on one or more of their paws. While most cats have 18 toes (five on each front paw and four on each back paw), polydactyl cats are born with more, sometimes even up to seven or more per paw.
This unusual feature is not a disease but a natural genetic variation that makes these cats truly unique in appearance and charm.
What Does “Polydactyl” Mean?
The word polydactyl comes from the Greek:
- “Poly” = many
- “Dactyl” = digits (toes)
So, polydactyl literally means “many toes.”
In cats, this condition—called polydactyly—is a congenital trait, meaning it is present at birth.
Why Do Polydactyl Cats Have Extra Toes?
Polydactyl cats get their extra toes due to a genetic mutation that affects how their paws develop in the womb.
- It is an autosomal dominant trait, meaning only one parent needs to carry the gene for kittens to inherit it.
- If one parent is polydactyl, there’s a high chance (around 40–50%) that the kittens will also have extra toes.
This mutation influences limb development, leading to the formation of additional fully formed toes, complete with bones and claws.
Types of Polydactyl Cats
Not all polydactyl cats look the same. The placement of extra toes can vary:
1. Preaxial Polydactyly (Most Common)
- Extra toes appear on the inner side of the paw.
- Often looks like a thumb, giving the “mitten” appearance.
2. Postaxial Polydactyly
- Extra toes grow on the outer side of the paw.
- Less common and sometimes less developed
3. Rare Variations
- Extra toes may appear in unusual positions or on all four paws.
Why Are They Called “Mitten Cats” or “Hemingway Cats”?
Polydactyl cats have several nicknames:
- Mitten Cats / Thumb Cats – because their paws look like they have thumbs
- Hemingway Cats – named after writer Ernest Hemingway
Hemingway owned a famous six-toed cat named Snow White, and today, many of her descendants still live at his Key West home.
Where Are Polydactyl Cats Found?
These cats are more common in certain regions, especially:
- East Coast of the United States
- Canada
- Western England and Wales
They became popular among sailors, who believed they brought good luck and appreciated their strong grip on ships.
Are Polydactyl Cats Healthier or Different?
In most cases, polydactyl cats are completely healthy and live normal lives.
Possible Advantages:
- Better balance and climbing ability
- Stronger grip when catching prey
- Easier movement on snow or uneven surfaces
Things to Watch:
- Extra claws may require trimming.
- Rarely, abnormal growth can cause discomfort.
Do They Belong to a Specific Breed?
Polydactyly is not a specific breed but rather a trait that can appear in many cats.
However, it is more commonly seen in:
- Maine Coon cats
- Mixed-breed domestic cats
Some breeders even recognize American Polydactyl cats, but major registries may not always accept them.
Fun Facts About Polydactyl Cats
- Some cats can have up to 28 toes (a world record!)
- Their paws can look like they have working thumbs (though they aren’t opposable)
- Sailors once believed they were lucky ship companions.
- Many cat lovers consider them extra adorable due to their unique paws.
Final Thoughts
Polydactyl cats are a perfect example of how nature creates beautiful variations. Their extra toes don’t just make them stand out—they also add to their personality and charm.
Whether you call them thumb cats, mitten cats, or Hemingway cats, one thing is certain: these unique felines are just as lovable, healthy, and playful as any other cat—just with a little extra flair on their paws.
