Different forms of polydactyly
Not every polydactyl cat looks the same. There are two main forms:
- Preaxial polydactyly: The extra toes are located on the thumb side, on the inside of the paw. This is often referred to as a “mitten paw”, because the paw looks as if the cat is wearing a mitten.
- Postaxial polydactyly: The extra toes are located on the outer side of the paw, on the little toe side. This is also known as “patty feet” or “snowshoe”.
The number of extra toes varies. Some cats have one extra toe per paw, others have several.
Hemingway cats
Cats with polydactyly are also known as Hemingway cats. In the 1930s, the American writer Ernest Hemingway received a kitten with six toes on each paw as a gift from a ship’s captain. The white kitten was named Snow White. To this day, descendants of these polydactyl cats still live on his estate in Key West. Since then, the name “Hemingway cat” has often been used for cats with extra toes.
How is the diagnosis made?
In most cases, polydactyly is immediately visible. Sometimes, however, the extra toes are only small protrusions under the skin and are not fully developed. In that case, an X-ray can show how many toe bones are present. Nowadays, DNA tests are also available, for example via Langford Vets, to identify carriers of the gene.
Does a polydactyl cat have health problems?
In most cases, polydactyly does not cause health problems, provided that:
- The claws are properly maintained.
- There are no deformities of the bones or joints.
The extra claws often grow quickly. Therefore, regular nail trimming is especially important. Extra toes may also wear down less easily. View everything in our paw care for cats category here.
An exception is formed by rare variants associated with radial hypoplasia, also known as “twistycats”. In these cases, the front legs may be abnormally shaped and mobility may be limited. This form is considered problematic.
Breed standards and shows
Polydactyly is not accepted in all breeds:
- Maine Coon: usually not permitted within the official breed standard, 5 toes in front and 4 at the back.
- Pixiebob: one of the few breeds in which polydactyly is allowed.
In the above-mentioned cat breeds, polydactyly occurs regularly. In principle, however, it can occur in all cats.
At FIFe shows, Fédération Internationale Féline, polydactyl cats are usually not allowed to compete for titles. At TICA, The International Cat Association, polydactyl cats can often be shown. They are presented in the “NEW Traits” class.
Breeding policy: desirable or not?
The gene is dominant, which makes targeted breeding relatively easy. Some breeders, especially in the United States, deliberately breed so-called “Poly Coons” because of their historical background and unique appearance. At the same time, deliberate breeding of polydactyl cats is discouraged by some organisations, such as International Cat Care.
The most important principle remains: extra toes must not cause pain, walking problems or functional limitations.
Do you have doubts about your cat’s paws or do you notice that your cat walks differently? Please contact your veterinarian for a check-up.
