Introduction: The Mystery of Six-Toed Cats

Whether you’re a cat lover or not, you might have heard about the myth surrounding six-toed cats and their supposed good fortune. But are polydactyl felines truly lucky? Let’s find out the truth about these unique cats and their fascinating history.

The Genetics of Polydactylism in Felines

Polydactylism is a genetic trait that occurs in about 40 cat breeds, including Maine Coons, Norwegian Forest Cats, and American Shorthairs. Instead of the typical five toes on their front paws and four on their back paws, polydactyl cats have six or more toes on one or more of their paws. The mutation that causes this trait is dominant, meaning that a cat only needs to inherit one copy of the gene from one parent to develop extra toes.

Where Do Six-Toed Cats Come From?

Six-toed cats were first documented in the 1940s in the coastal town of Boston, Massachusetts, where they were known as "Boston Thumb Cats." However, the origins of polydactylism in felines trace back to the 18th century, when sailors brought cats with extra toes on board their ships to combat rodent infestations. These cats eventually made their way to the United States and other parts of the world, where they became popular among cat enthusiasts and collectors.

The History of Hemingway’s Polydactyl Cats

One of the most well-known stories about six-toed cats is that of author Ernest Hemingway and his love for polydactyl felines. Hemingway was given a six-toed cat by a ship captain and became enamored with the unique trait. He eventually accumulated a colony of over 50 cats, some of which are still living on his estate in Key West, Florida, and are taken care of by a dedicated staff of caretakers.

Folklore and Superstitions Surrounding Six-Toed Cats

Throughout history, six-toed cats have been associated with good luck and prosperity in folklore and superstition. In some cultures, it was believed that owning a polydactyl cat could bring wealth and good fortune. Sailors also considered these cats to be lucky charms on their voyages, as they were thought to have better balance and agility than cats with normal paws.

The Truth About Lucky Six-Toed Cats

While there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that six-toed cats are inherently lucky, there is no denying the charm and uniqueness of these felines. Whether you’re a believer in superstition or not, owning a polydactyl cat can be a joyous experience, as they are often affectionate, playful, and intelligent.

Famous Polydactyl Cats and Their Stories

Aside from Hemingway’s famous cats, there are several other polydactyl felines that have gained notoriety over the years. One such cat is Paws, a polydactyl kitty from Minnesota who holds the Guinness World Record for the most toes on a cat, with a whopping 28 toes in total! Other famous six-toed cats include Snowball, a cat who survived being trapped in the rubble of the World Trade Center after 9/11, and Yoda, a beloved feline who captivated the internet with his unique appearance.

Adopting a Polydactyl Feline: What to Know

If you’re considering adopting a six-toed cat, it’s important to know that they require regular grooming to keep their extra toes clean and healthy. Additionally, some polydactyl cats may have health issues related to their extra toes, such as arthritis or joint problems. However, with proper care and attention, polydactyl felines can make wonderful pets and companions for cat lovers of all ages.