Have you ever noticed a cat with paws that seem a little… different? Perhaps they look like they have thumbs, giving their paws a mitten-like appearance. These fascinating felines are known as polydactyl cats, often affectionately called “cats with thumbs” or “mitten cats.” The term polydactyl itself means “many digits,” and it perfectly describes these unique kitties who boast more toes than the average feline.
But what exactly causes these extra toes, turning a regular paw into what looks like a cat thumb? Are these “Cat Thumbs” just a quirky genetic anomaly, or do they offer any advantages? Let’s delve into the world of polydactyl cats and uncover the secrets behind their charmingly unusual paws.
Decoding the Feline Paw: How Many Toes Do Cats Normally Have?
black and white cat paw with extra toes
Typically, a cat gracefully pads around on paws with a total of 18 toes. This breaks down to five toes on each front paw and four on each back paw. You’ll also notice a dewclaw on each front paw, which is often likened to a thumb, although it doesn’t function like a true opposable thumb.
Polydactyl cats, however, deviate from this standard. “Polydactyly” is the condition that causes a cat to have extra toes, and these additional digits can appear on any paw, front or back. As Dr. Anita Patel, DVM, a veterinarian and Area Medical Director at IndeVets, explains, “Extra toes can be found on the front or hind limbs.”
Interestingly, these extra toes most commonly sprout on the inside of the paw, on what’s known as the pre-axial or “thumb” side. Less frequently, they can appear on the outside (post-axial or “pinky” side) or even in the middle (meso-axial). Adding to the uniqueness, the number of extra toes isn’t always symmetrical; one paw might have more “thumbs” than the others!
For a truly exceptional example, look no further than Jake, an orange tabby who holds a Guinness World Record for the most toes on a cat. Jake boasts a remarkable seven digits on each paw, totaling an astounding 28 toes! Paws, another polydactyl cat from Minnesota, shares this record, proving that Jake isn’t alone in his toe extravagance.
The Genetic Blueprint Behind “Cat Thumbs”: Why Polydactyly Occurs
The reason behind these adorable “cat thumbs” comes down to genetics. As Dr. Patel points out, “Genetics play a big role” in polydactylism.
Polydactyly is an autosomal dominant trait, a somewhat complex genetic characteristic. This means that for a kitten to inherit polydactyly, only one parent needs to carry the gene. If a polydactyl cat mates with a non-polydactyl cat, each kitten in their litter has a 50% chance of being born with extra toes.
The specific number of extra toes can vary greatly, and scientists are still unraveling the full genetic mechanisms at play. Dr. Alejandro R. Caos, DVM, a small-animal veterinarian at The Vets, clarifies that “The genetic basis of polydactylism is complex. It’s an autosomal dominant trait that has incomplete penetration and variable expression, which contributes to the various toe configurations a polydactyl cat can have.” This “variable expression” is why some cats might have just one extra “thumb,” while others, like Jake and Paws, have many more.
Historically, it’s believed that polydactyl cats may have been spread around the world by early settlers and sailors. The theory is that their larger paws, equipped with extra “thumbs,” might have made them superior mousers on ships, thus favored companions for long voyages. While extra toes might offer benefits like improved balance or grip in some individual cats, Dr. Caos emphasizes that “Polydactylism is not considered a crucial adaptation for cats’ survival in the wild.” It’s more likely a fascinating quirk of genetics than a necessary evolutionary advantage.
Are “Cat Thumbs” a Rare Phenomenon?
Despite their unique appearance, cats with thumbs are not actually rare. As Dr. Caos explains, “When a polydactyl cat breeds with a non-polydactyl cat, the offspring have a 50% chance of inheriting the polydactyl gene.” This relatively high probability means that polydactyl cats pop up quite frequently. And if both parents are polydactyl, the chances of their kittens having extra toes increase even further.
The most common form of polydactyly is the “mitten paw” look, where cats have one or two extra toes on their front paws, creating the impression of thumbs or mittens. Cats with a more significant number of extra toes, like the record-holding Jake and Paws, are considered less common, but still not exceptionally rare.
Breeds Prone to “Thumbs”: Which Cats Are More Likely to Have Extra Toes?
While any cat can be born with polydactyly, certain breeds are more predisposed to having these charming “cat thumbs.” The Maine Coon and Pixiebob breeds are particularly known for their higher incidence of polydactylism. “Maine Coon cats are known for their large size and tufted ears, and the presence of extra toes adds to their unique appearance,” shares Dr. Caos.
You might also hear the term “American Polydactyl,” but it’s important to note that this isn’t a recognized breed. Instead, it refers to a lineage of polydactyl cats originating in Key West, Florida. The famous author Ernest Hemingway, a former Key West resident, played a role in popularizing these cats. He was given a six-toed cat named Snow White, and her descendants, carrying the polydactyl gene, still reside at Hemingway’s estate in Key West today, with over 60 polydactyl felines calling it home. These cats are often referred to as “Hemingway cats” in honor of their literary connection.
Caring for Cats with Thumbs: Special Needs?
Generally, caring for a cat with thumbs is very similar to caring for any other cat. However, there are a few minor considerations to keep in mind due to their extra digits:
Nail Care
With more toes comes more nails! Polydactyl cats have more nails than their 18-toed counterparts, and some of these nails, especially those from extra toes that don’t touch the ground, might be prone to overgrowth. Overgrown nails can become uncomfortable, get snagged, or even lead to infections. Therefore, regular nail trimming is crucial to keep your “cat thumb” kitty comfortable and healthy.
Paw Hygiene
Dr. Caos points out that “Extra toes in polydactyl cats means there may be additional spaces between the toes where dirt, debris, or litter can accumulate.” Regularly inspecting your cat’s paws and gently wiping them clean as needed will help prevent any build-up of dirt or debris in these extra toe crevices.
Mobility and Adaptation
In most cases, polydactyl cats move around just as easily as any other cat and don’t experience mobility issues due to their extra toes. However, if your cat has particularly large or unusually formed extra toes, it’s wise to monitor their movement. They should be able to walk, run, and jump without any signs of difficulty or pain.
Dr. Caos advises, “If you notice any limping, favoring of certain paws, or changes in mobility, it’s best to consult a veterinarian for further evaluation.” In rare instances where extra toes cause problems, surgical removal is an option.
In conclusion, “cat thumbs,” or polydactyly, are a fascinating and generally harmless genetic variation in cats. These mitten-pawed felines are not only adorable but also perfectly capable of living happy and healthy lives. So, if you encounter a cat with thumbs, appreciate their unique charm – you’re witnessing a delightful quirk of nature!
