Why does a cat have six toes on its front paws? - briefly
A cat with six toes on its front paws is known as a polydactyl cat. This genetic trait is caused by a dominant gene that can occur in any breed, resulting in extra toes beyond the typical five.
Why does a cat have six toes on its front paws? - in detail
A cat with six toes on its front paws is a phenomenon known as polydactyly, which is more common than one might think among felines. This genetic trait occurs due to a mutation in a specific gene that regulates limb development during embryogenesis. The mutated gene causes an additional digit or digits to form on the paws, resulting in what appears to be extra toes.
Polydactyly is typically inherited as a dominant trait, meaning that if one parent has polydactyl feet, there's a high chance their offspring will also inherit this condition. The mutation responsible for polydactyly was first identified in 2014 and is known as the ZRS (ZPA regulatory sequence) element. This element plays a crucial role in limb patterning and development, and its disruption leads to the formation of extra digits.
Cats with six toes on their front paws are often referred to as "Hemingway cats" or "mitten cats." While polydactyly is generally considered a benign condition, it can sometimes lead to issues such as ingrown nails, infections, and difficulty walking if the extra toes are not properly cared for. However, many cat owners find the unique appearance of polydactyl cats endearing and seek out these felines specifically due to their distinctive features.
In some cases, polydactyly can be induced through selective breeding practices. Breeders may deliberately mate polydactyl cats with normal cats or other polydactyl cats to increase the likelihood of producing kittens with extra toes. This practice is more common in certain breeds known for their tolerance or preference for polydactyly, such as the Maine Coon and the American Polydactyl.
In conclusion, a cat having six toes on its front paws is a result of a genetic mutation that affects limb development during embryogenesis. This trait, known as polydactyly, is typically inherited as a dominant trait and can lead to unique physical characteristics in cats. While generally benign, proper care is essential to prevent potential issues associated with extra toes.