posted 08-04-2003 08:36 AM           

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I just recently took in a stray kitten. My family and I soon discovered that it has 6 toes on each of its front paws and 5 on each of the back. I have seen kittens like this and from what I know it isn't anything serious, but this is my first time owning one. I need to know if there is any special care I need to give this kitten or if I should watch for other medical problems. Thank you.

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Posts: 5
From:Somerville, MA 02143
Registered: Jun 2003

posted 08-04-2003 11:09 AM         

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I had a kitten with two extra toes. The vet said that it was unusal but there is nothing wrong with it.

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From:NY, USA
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posted 08-04-2003 03:18 PM         

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They are called "polydactyl". I don't think you have anything to be concerned about except some of them are born with an extra, non-retractable nail (not attatched to a toe) between the extra toes. If this is the case with your kitten then that extra nail will have to be kept well trimmed or should be removed to prevent it from getting caught on anything and ripped off.
Here is a great, informative article regarding genetics, minor problems and history of polydactyl cats: http://www.messybeast.com/poly-cats.html

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Posts: 50
From:oregon
Registered: Aug 2003

posted 08-15-2003 01:11 PM         

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both of my cats from the same litter have 6 toes in front and 5 in back and Meko (my baby boy) sucks his 6th toe its the cutes thing EVER!!...i heard it was too much inbreeding...lol but i dont even want to go there. no probs from us....

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