A Maine Coon cat from Wisconsin has set a Guinness World Record for the most toes on a cat [1].
The achievement highlights a rare genetic condition known as polydactyly, which can result in animals being born with extra digits on their paws.
Erebus Anomaly, owned by Kendra Vandenbloomer and Hunter Nett, was officially recognized on Monday with a total of 29 toes [1]. The cat possesses eight toes on one paw and seven toes on each of the other three paws [2].
This total surpasses the previous record of 28 toes [2]. That earlier mark had remained unbeaten since 2002 [2].
A UPI reporter said Erebus Anomaly earned the record after his digits were counted at 29 [1]. The certification confirms the cat as the most polydactyl feline ever recorded by the organization.
While polydactyly is a known trait in some cat breeds, the scale of Erebus's condition is exceptional. Most polydactyl cats have only a few extra toes, often referred to as "mitten paws," rather than the significant increase seen in this case.
Owners in the U.S. state of Wisconsin have seen their pet transition from a household curiosity to a world-record holder [1]. The counting process required for Guinness World Records verification ensures that every digit is distinct, and fully formed.
“Erebus Anomaly earned the Guinness World Record for the most toes on a cat after his digits were counted at 29.”
Polydactyly is a genetic mutation that affects the development of digits. While common in certain populations—such as the 'Hemingway cats' of Key West—the case of Erebus Anomaly represents an extreme end of the biological spectrum. Breaking a record that stood for over two decades underscores the rarity of such high digit counts in domestic feline populations.
