A Genetic Anomaly
Polydactyl cats are born with more than the usual number of toes due to a congenital condition called polydactyly. Normal cats have 18 toes, but polydactyl cats can have up to 28 digits. This trait is most commonly found along the East Coast of North America and in South West England and Wales.
A Trait Passed Through Generations
Polydactyly is inherited through an autosomal dominant gene, meaning a cat with one polydactyl parent has a high chance of having extra toes. The mutation affects the sonic hedgehog (SHH) gene, which plays a role in limb development. Some polydactyl cats only have extra toes on their front paws, while others have them on all four.
Sailors’ Favorite Ship Cats
Historically, polydactyl cats were favored by sailors, who believed they brought good luck at sea. Their extra toes made them skilled climbers and hunters, helping to control shipboard rodents. Boston, a major port city, is believed to have played a role in spreading polydactyl cats worldwide.
Hemingway’s Cats
Author Ernest Hemingway became known for his love of polydactyl cats after receiving one as a gift. His former home in Key West, Florida, now houses around 50 cats, many of them polydactyl. Today, these cats are sometimes referred to as Hemingway cats in his honor.
