Many people are not familiar with the term Hemingway Cats. Hemingways are Polydactyl cat or six toed cats. They were a favorite of the famed author Ernest Hemingway and his famous Hemingway Home and Museum in Cuba.
The trait for polydact comes from a dominant gene, and only a polydactyl cat can parent another polydact. Although the Maine Coon (whose ancestors are also thought to have immigrated to the U.S. aboard ships) is believed to have been the first breed to have this trait, polydact is considered a fault in that breed, and indeed in every other breed except the Pixie Bob, a relatively new breed.
So, rather than a breed, polydact is just a genetic trait, somewhat like the genetics for the tabby pattern. Instead of the normal 18 toes (five on each front foot and four on the rear) found on most cats, polydacts have six or more toes on the front feet, and sometimes an extra toe on the rear.
However, unlike the popular tabby, whose pattern can be found in many breeds, the polydact is frowned upon by breed registries. Why? According to Barbara French, although not inherently dangerous, there is a possibility that the extra toes could be malformed, either with two toes fusing, or with ingrown toenails.
Although not approved as "purebreds," polydacts are adored by their human companions. Whether called "polydactyls," "Hemingway Cats," or "Mittens," these many-toed cats warm the hearts and hearths of those people fortunate to share a home with one.
Hemingways were first introduced to the Americas in the early 1600's and were known as Maine Coon Polydactyls.
I am the proud owner and mom to a Hemi or Poly that is also a proud mom to four baby Polies.
About my other felines. I am also a proud mom to nine (that right! 9) other fiesty felines that are a joy to be around everyday. This blog is all about my 10 cats (total) and thier antics.
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