It’s been a regular joke around the Britannica offices that we should put together a list of “best cats”–this is the internet, after all. Two cat-loving editors have taken up this challenge for you to enjoy. After much debate We present to you a definitive list of best cats according to our.
Polydactyl cats are the most gratifying. Errr, high-sixes. Polydactyls, also referred to as “mitten cats” as well as “thumb cats”, have a genetic mutation that permits them to have more than the normal number of feet. Polydactyl cats could have anything from six to eight feet on each paw. The extra toes often make them look like their paws are thumbs. While polydactyly can happen in many different species of animals (including humans), it’s arguably cutest in cats.
Because of the random activation of genes, it’s not possible to duplicate the same calico cat. The essential traits required that allow calico patterns are in the X-chromosome. Consequently, almost all calicos are female. Male calico cat breeds can only be identified as a result of genetic defects.