1. ✨ What Is Polydactyly?

Polydactyly means having extra toes—more than the usual 18 (five front, four back). These cats may have six or more toes on one or more paws :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. The trait is an autosomal dominant genetic mutation—only one parent needs to pass it on :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

2. 💤 Common Toe Counts & Records

Most polydactyl cats have just 1–2 extra toes per paw. However, record holders like Jake and Paws boast 28 toes—seven per paw! :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

Typical counts range from 19–23 toes, but extreme cases may reach 28 :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

3. 🧬 Types of Polydactyly

• Preaxial (“thumb” or mitten paws): Extra toes beside the dewclaw, creating a thumb-like appearance—most common :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
• Postaxial: Extra digits on the pinky (outer) side :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
• Mesoaxial: Rare—extra toe growing in the center of the paw :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

4. 🗺️ Genetics & Inheritance

This trait follows an autosomal dominant pattern; each kitten from a polydactyl×normal pairing has ~50% chance of being polydactyl :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.

Scientific studies identify mutations in the SHH gene enhancer (ZRS) affecting digit development—a single point mutation yields varied extra toes depending on gene expression :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.

5. 🌍 History, Culture & Fun Facts

Sailors prized polydactyl cats—“thumb cats” helped control shipboard rodents and balance on deck. They were seen as good luck across cultures :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

Ernest Hemingway was famously fond of them. His Key West home still houses ~60 polydactyl cats—about half of which carry the gene :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.

Maine Coons and Pixie Bobs also commonly exhibit the trait—up to 40% in Maine Coons historically—leading to official recognition in some cat clubs :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.

6. 👍 Practical Benefits & Downsides

• Advantages: Extra toes can improve balance, climbing, hunting, and toy-grasping ability :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
• Downsides: More nails to trim and occasional snagging in carpets. Rare misformed toes can lead to ingrown nails :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.

7. 🩺 Health & Wellness Checks

Polydactyly alone is harmless. Regular checks should include:

• Inspect toes for misaligned nails or ingrown claw issues.
• Trim all nails carefully—extra digits need equal attention :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
• X-rays may help identify malformed toes—but only if issues are present :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.
• Avoid breeding cats with genetic syndromes (like radial hypoplasia)—requires vet guidance :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.

8. 🧼 Daily Care & Nail Trimming Tips

1. Handle paws gently to help cats accept trimming.
2. Use specialized cat nail clippers.
3. Count and clip all extra toes—front and hind paws.
4. Monitor nail regrowth often to avoid splitting/curling.

9. 🐱 Are They Still Just Regular Cats?

Yes! Most polydactyl cats lead normal, healthy lives. Unless extra toes are malformed, they shouldn't affect posture or mobility :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.

10. 📚 Fun Trivia

• Nicknames include: “mitten cats,” “thumb cats,” “snowshoe cats,” “boxing cats” and “Hemingway cats” :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.
• World records: Jake and Paws tied with 28 toes :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}.
• Regions with high prevalence: Eastern U.S., Eastern Canada, Western England & Wales :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}.

11. 🐾 Ask A Vet Care Tips

Want to check your cat’s extra toes safely? Ask A Vet is available 24/7 via app to guide you on grooming, health checks, or potential concerns—no appointment needed 📱🐱.

Download at AskAVet.com—for expert advice and peace of mind about your polydactyl pal! 💬🩺

12. ✅ Final Thoughts

Polydactyl cats are a delightful example of benign genetic diversity. With simple maintenance and occasional toe checks, these charming “thumb cats” remain healthy and quirky companions. Celebrate those extra toes—and enjoy a loving, well-cared-for polydactyl friend in 2025!

Need help with grooming, health checks, or understanding your cat’s genetics? The Ask A Vet app is ready anytime to support your unique feline journey 🐾✨.