More Info

Did you know?

Polydactyl cats are known to some as “ship cats” as the additional toes were thought to give them better balance when out on stormy waters. Some sailors even believed the extra-toed felines brought good luck when out at sea. The cats with this rare variant are traditionally found in South West England and Wales (United Kingdom).

How it works

One or two copies of this Polydactyly variant may result in a cat having extra toes on all four feet. About half of the cats with one copy of this variant will have extra toes. Cats with two copies of this variant are even more likely to have extra toes.

Health implications

Most polydactyl cats do not need special care apart from regular nail trimming as the nails can become ingrown, triggering pain and infection.