Move over, Jake. There’s a new (tied) record holder in the world of extraordinary felines.
Toby Henderson, a 10-month-old kitten from Lansing, Michigan, has officially tied the Guinness World Record for the most toes on a cat with an impressive total of 28 digits. The record was verified on May 12, 2025, matching the mark set back in 2002 by Jake, a polydactyl cat from Bonfield, Ontario.
The condition, known as polydactyly, is a congenital genetic mutation that causes extra toes. In Toby’s case, every additional digit is fully formed with its own claws, pads and bones. While normal cats typically have 18 toes (five on each front paw and four on each back), Toby’s extra 10 give him notably large, mitten-like paws — a charming trait with no impact on his health.
Toby was adopted by Delaney Henderson, who already had experience raising a polydactyl cat named Connie. She was specifically looking for a companion for her existing pet when Toby’s foster mom highlighted his unusual feet.
“Having another polydactyl cat, I was expecting the extra ‘thumbs,’ but nothing could’ve prepared me to see Toby’s paws,” Delaney told Guinness World Records officials. She was instantly won over by the kitten’s sweet face and outgoing personality, calling the adoption “fate.
Initially shy upon arriving in his new home, Toby has since revealed himself as a high-energy whirlwind. Delaney describes him as “the most excited kitty I’ve ever met,” noting his love for launching off furniture, enthusiastic pouncing, and dramatic reactions to treat time. Despite the boundless zoomies, he remains a major cuddler who purrs instantly and enjoys falling asleep between his owner’s legs.
He shares the household with big sister Connie in a playful sibling dynamic full of chases and roughhousing. The extra toes mean more frequent nail trims — Toby sports a total of 30 claws — but otherwise require no special care.
Polydactyl cats, sometimes nicknamed “mitten cats” or “Hemingway cats” after the author who famously kept dozens of them, are especially common in parts of the northeastern U.S. and eastern Canada. Their extra digits often give them enhanced gripping power, making them legendary climbers and hunters in feline folklore.
Toby’s story has drawn widespread attention online, bringing smiles and renewed appreciation for rescue animals. Delaney encourages potential adopters to consider shelter and rescue pets, noting how her two cats have become beloved emotional support companions in the household.
The record stands as a delightful reminder of the wonderful quirks that make cats such endlessly fascinating companions.
