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Writer's pictureRIck LeCouteur

Lucky Paws: The fascinating world of polydactyl cats



Ever noticed a cat with “thumbs” or extra toes

and wondered what makes them so unique?

 

These quirky felines, known as polydactyl or Hemingway cats, are more than just cute - they come with a fascinating backstory, a bit of maritime lore, and a charm that’s impossible to ignore. From balancing on ship decks to capturing Ernest Hemingway’s heart, these six-toed wonders have an edge (and an extra toe) over the rest!

 

Polydactyl cats are a unique breed of charmers, beloved for their extra toes and the bit of mystery they bring to the feline world. Often known as Hemingway cats due to the author Ernest Hemingway's love for them, these six-toed felines have captured the hearts of many, including me. The picture is of me with Obie (Orange Boy) who had a total of 26 toes, and was the sweetest cat on planet earth!

 

What is a Polydactyl Cat?

 

A polydactyl cat has more than the usual number of toes on one or more of its paws. While most cats have five toes on their front paws and four on the back, polydactyl cats can have six, seven, or even more! The extra toes generally appear on the front paws but can also pop up on the back, giving these cats a unique, mitten-like appearance.

 

Polydactyly in cats is caused by a genetic mutation that results in the development of additional digits. This trait is inherited as a dominant gene, meaning if one parent has extra toes, it’s likely that some of the kittens will have them too.

 

A Bit of History: Why Are They Called Hemingway Cats?

 

The nickname Hemingway cat comes from the famous American writer Ernest Hemingway, who was gifted a six-toed cat named Snow White in the 1930s. Hemingway became fascinated with polydactyl cats, and soon, his home in Key West, Florida, was filled with them. To this day, the Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West is home to dozens of polydactyl cats, many of whom are descendants of Snow White. These cats have free rein over the property and are a popular attraction for visitors and cat lovers. Because of Hemingway’s influence, polydactyl cats are sometimes also called mitten cats or thumb cats.

 

Why Do Some Cats Have Extra Toes?

 

Polydactyly is a congenital trait, meaning it’s present from birth. The extra toes are typically caused by a mutation in the gene responsible for limb development. The exact number of toes varies widely; some polydactyl cats may have just one extra toe, while others can have several. This trait is most common in domestic cats, particularly in North America, where it’s believed that seafaring captains brought them on board as lucky charms. They were considered excellent rat catchers!

 

Sailors valued these cats not only for their supposed luck but also for their hunting abilities and stability on deck. The extra toes are thought to improve balance and grip, making these cats excellent mousers even in stormy seas. Over time, these polydactyl ship cats spread along the coasts of North America and beyond, especially in New England and Canada.

 

Benefits of Extra Toes: Are They Functional?

 

In most cases, the extra toes of polydactyl cats are fully formed and functional, adding a quirky flair to their gait. Some owners report that these cats have a better grip, especially on slippery or uneven surfaces, making them skilled climbers. The extra toes can sometimes resemble thumbs, and some polydactyl cats even look as if they could grasp objects - a rare ability for felines. My cat Obie would reach into his food bowl and pick up a single crunchie, which he would then transfer to his mouth!


However, these extra toes may require a bit of special care. Because they don’t always wear down naturally, the claws on these extra toes can become overgrown, so trimming may be necessary to prevent discomfort.

 

Fun Facts About Polydactyl Cats

 

  • Not a Breed, But a Trait: Polydactyly isn’t exclusive to a single breed; it’s a genetic trait that can appear in any cat breed. However, it’s more common in Maine Coon cats, especially along the East Coast of the United States.

  • Ship Cats of Yore: Sailors believed polydactyl cats brought good luck and stability at sea, making them popular companions on ships. Their extra toes helped them maintain their balance, even on rough seas, and made them effective mousers on board.

  • Record-Setting Toes: The Guinness World Record for the cat with the most toes is held by a Canadian polydactyl cat named Jake, who had a total of 28 toes! Jake has seven toes on each paw, a rare example of extreme polydactyly.

  • Genetic Mystery: Although polydactyl cats are most common in North America, the mutation isn’t exclusive to any one region. European breeders also report polydactyl cats, but the trait seems to appear less frequently.

  • A Trait That Lasts Generations: If a polydactyl cat has kittens, there’s a good chance some of the offspring will inherit the extra-toed trait. Because it’s an autosomal dominant gene, only one parent needs to carry the mutation to pass it on.

 

Polydactyl Cats: A Special Companion

 

While polydactyly in cats is generally harmless, it adds a unique and endearing characteristic to these felines. Cat lovers worldwide have come to appreciate their extra toes as part of their charm. Whether they’re descended from Hemingway’s famed six-toed cats or hail from a line of North Atlantic ship cats, polydactyl cats bring a bit of history and plenty of personality into the lives of their owners.

 

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