Cats with six toes, known as polydactyl cats, primarily inherit this trait through genetics. If one parent is polydactyl, there's a 40-50% chance their kittens will also have extra toes.. Polydactyl cats typically have six or seven toes on their front paws, and occasionally, extra toes on their back paws as well. The number of extra digits varies depending on the individual cat and its genetic expression.
The Genetic Roots of Extra Toes in Cats Polydactyly, the condition responsible for cats having six toes, is a fascinating genetic mutation that alters the number of digits on a cat's paws. Unlike the typical feline paw structure — which features five toes on the front paws and four on the back — polydactyl cats boast one or more extra toes, usually on their front feet. This mutation.. The term "polydactyl cat" refers to a cat with extra toes. While most only have one or two, some have so many that they look like cats with thumbs. Here's what to know about polydactyl kittens and cats.