Rescue Kitten with 28 Toes Ties Longstanding Guinness World Record

In a delightful story emerging from Michigan, a unique 10-month-old rescue kitten named Toby is making headlines after tying with a previous record-holder for the title of the cat with the most toes. Toby, residing in Lansing, boasts an astonishing total of 28 toes—giving him an impressive 30 claws. This remarkable feat was verified by veterinarians and has earned him recognition from Guinness World Records.

Toby’s journey to fame began when he was adopted by Delaney Henderson in 2025. Henderson had previously rescued another cat named Connie, who is also polydactyl, meaning she has extra toes; however, her total does not come close to Toby’s remarkable count. Looking for a feline companion for Connie, Henderson stumbled upon Toby’s adoption listing. The listing failed to mention his extraordinary paws, but his foster mother highlighted this unusual trait.

“When I first saw his toes, I was in disbelief,” Henderson recounted, her excitement evident. She admitted that while she was prepared for the possibility of seeing more than the usual number of ‘thumb’ toes, nothing could have prepared her for the sight of Toby’s paws. Upon meeting him in person, she felt an immediate connection and knew he was meant to be a part of her family.

Initially, Toby was a bit shy upon settling into his new home, but he quickly transformed into an energetic and talkative cat. Henderson shared that he has developed a strong personality, enjoying leaps onto furniture and seizing every opportunity for a snack. “He is particularly food-motivated,” she said, revealing that Toby has a talent for chewing through treat packets and will employ vocal tactics whenever someone opens the pantry.

Despite his high energy, Toby relishes time spent cuddling with Henderson, often curling up between her legs while she relaxes on the sofa. “When he isn’t being a ball of energy, he is such a big baby,” she affectionately noted, highlighting his affectionate nature and the soothing purr that follows her gentle touch.

Remarkably, despite his 28 toes and multitude of claws, Toby does not suffer from any health complications typically associated with such a rare condition. “He is in great health, and aside from regular nail trimming, he’s just a normal kitten with no extra concerns,” Henderson confirmed.

Living alongside Connie, the pair engage in typical sibling antics, with Henderson describing their relationship as playful and lively. Connie, as the older sister, often takes on a more responsible role while Toby’s exuberance keeps everyone entertained. “They love to play wild together and chase each other around,” she said, showcasing the delightful dynamic between the two polydactyl cats.

Delaney Henderson hopes that Toby’s remarkable story will shine a light on the joys of adopting rescue animals. “Having these two kitties has truly changed my life for the better,” she said during her interview with Guinness World Records. She expressed gratitude for the emotional support Toby and Connie provide, asserting that their presence brings immense joy and warmth to everyone in the household.

In a world where adoption stories are crucial for changing perceptions around rescue animals, Toby and Connie’s tale serves as an uplifting reminder of the love and companionship that can be found in shelters and rescue organisations. The bond between these two extraordinary felines not only highlights the unique characteristics of polydactyl cats but also reinforces the importance of giving shelter animals a second chance at life and love.