“I really couldn’t believe what I was seeing.”
A few months ago, Delaney Henderson welcomed a foster cat named Toby into her home. It didn’t take long for the affectionate feline to win her over with his friendly personality.
But while getting to know her new foster, Henderson noticed something unusual about his paws.
Toby had far more toes than the average cat.
An Incredible Case of Polydactylism
Toby was born with polydactylism, a harmless genetic condition that causes cats to have extra toes.
Henderson was already familiar with the trait because she owns another polydactyl cat named Connie. However, even she was stunned after counting Toby’s toes.
Most cats have 18 toes in total. A typical polydactyl cat might have one extra toe on each front paw, bringing the total to around 20.
Toby, however, had an astonishing seven toes on each paw, giving him a remarkable total of 28 toes.
“When I first saw his toes, I really couldn’t believe what I was seeing,” Henderson said in a Guinness World Records Instagram post.
A Foster Fail That Felt Like Fate
Interestingly, Toby’s foster profile never mentioned his unusual paws.
For Henderson, it felt like fate had brought him into her life—and into the home of another special cat who shared the same rare condition.
Before long, she realized Toby wasn’t going anywhere.
“I had a gut feeling when I met him that he was meant to be in my life, and I am so grateful to have given him a forever home,” Henderson said.
Connie Welcomes Her New Brother
Toby settled into his new home almost immediately, thanks in large part to Connie.
The experienced polydactyl cat quickly took on the role of big sister, helping Toby adjust to his surroundings and making him feel welcome.
The pair formed a close bond, proving they were the perfect match.
Toby Earns a Place in the Record Books
Wanting to share Toby’s incredible story, Henderson submitted his information to Guinness World Records.
Not long afterward, she received exciting news.
Guinness confirmed that Toby had tied the world record for the cat with the most toes, earning an official certificate recognizing his extraordinary paws.
It was an unforgettable moment for Henderson—and for Toby.
Extra Toes Don’t Slow Him Down
Although 28 toes might sound uncomfortable, Toby lives a completely normal, active life.
He climbs cat trees with ease, leaps around the house, plays like any other cat, and enjoys relaxing on the couch after a busy day.
The only extra maintenance he requires is regular nail care.
“He is in great health, and beyond a thorough nail trimming — he has 30 claws as well! — he is a regular kitty with no extra concerns,” Henderson said.
More Than a World Record Holder
While Toby’s record-breaking paws have captured the attention of cat lovers around the world, Henderson says his personality is what truly makes him special.
To her, Toby is much more than a Guinness World Records holder.
He’s a funny, affectionate, playful companion who brings happiness to everyone around him.
“We love our sweet boy,” Henderson said.
For Henderson, adopting Toby turned out to be much more than a successful foster experience—it was the beginning of a lifelong friendship with a truly one-of-a-kind cat.