Ernest Hemingway and His Cats: A Feline Love Affair

Ernest Hemingway, the iconic American author known for his works like The Old Man and the Sea and A Farewell to Arms, is not only remembered for his literary genius but also for his deep love of cats. Hemingway's connection to felines became legendary, with many of his cats—particularly the polydactyl variety—becoming famous in their own right. His love for cats, especially the ones with extra toes, added a unique aspect to his persona and his time in Key West, Florida, where his famous home and legacy still live on today.

Hemingway's Cats: The Polydactyl Connection

One of the most enduring aspects of Hemingway’s relationship with cats is the fact that many of them were polydactyls, meaning they had extra toes. This trait, which gives cats more than the usual number of toes on their paws, was not uncommon among Hemingway’s feline companions. The writer was gifted a polydactyl cat by a ship's captain during his time in Key West, and from that moment, Hemingway became enamored with these unique creatures.

Today, the descendants of Hemingway’s cats, many of which still live at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West, are often polydactyl. These cats are a symbol of Hemingway's love for unusual and unique creatures, and visitors can see them roam freely around the museum grounds. The extra toes of these cats, which make them stand out, are often a conversation starter for visitors to this historic site.

The Cats of Hemingway’s Key West Home

Hemingway’s home in Key West became a haven for his numerous cats, who were often allowed to roam the property. At one point, it is believed that Hemingway had as many as 50 cats living with him at the height of his time in Key West. The cats were often a mix of domestic shorthairs and the polydactyl variety. They were allowed the freedom to wander both inside and outside the house, and they became an integral part of Hemingway’s daily life.

The house itself, located at 907 Whitehead Street in Key West, is now a museum that preserves much of the author’s life and work. Visitors can take tours of the home and its lush gardens, where Hemingway’s cats continue to live, roaming the grounds and receiving plenty of attention from visitors. These cats are cared for by the museum staff and are part of the historic charm of the place.

Why Hemingway Loved Polydactyl Cats

Hemingway’s love for polydactyl cats was rooted in both personal preference and the unique nature of these cats. Polydactyl cats are sometimes called "Hemingway cats" because of the famous association with the writer. The extra toes give the cats a distinct appearance and are often seen as a charming quirk. Hemingway’s first polydactyl cat was a gift from a sea captain, and this cat, named Snowball, quickly became a fixture in Hemingway’s life.

In Hemingway's view, polydactyl cats were not just quirky but also symbolized individuality. The extra toes gave them an almost "supernatural" quality, making them stand out from the ordinary cats that filled many homes. This unique physical trait became a reflection of Hemingway's own personality—often seen as unconventional, rebellious, and a bit eccentric.

The Famous Cats of Hemingway’s Life

Some of Hemingway’s most famous cats were not only polydactyl but also had their own stories to tell. Here are a few of the notable felines that lived with Hemingway:

  • Snowball: Hemingway’s first polydactyl cat, Snowball, was a gift from a ship captain. Snowball was a beautiful white cat and became Hemingway’s first companion in his growing feline family.

  • Max: Another polydactyl cat, Max was one of Hemingway’s favorites. Max was known for his distinctive extra toes and strong personality.

  • Martha: Named after Hemingway’s third wife, Martha was a calm and graceful cat, often seen lounging around the house.

  • Zelda: Inspired by Zelda Fitzgerald, the wife of author F. Scott Fitzgerald, this cat had a name to match her eccentricity.

  • Polly: Another cat with extra toes, Polly was well-known among the many cats who lived in Hemingway’s home. Her playful nature and striking appearance made her a favorite.

The Hemingway Home and Museum: A Legacy of Cats

Hemingway’s connection to cats continues to thrive at his former residence, which is now the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West. The museum is home to approximately 40 to 50 cats, many of which are descendants of Hemingway’s original felines. The cats are a living tribute to the author’s love for animals and the way they were intertwined with his life and work.

The museum also serves as a unique preservation of Hemingway’s legacy. The cats are cared for by museum staff, who ensure that they remain a central part of the experience for visitors. The cats are allowed to roam freely, and visitors can often spot them lounging in Hemingway’s former study or wandering through the garden. The museum even holds a special event each year to celebrate the cats, known as the Hemingway Days Festival, which includes a “Cat Key West” tour.

Why Hemingway’s Cats Matter Today

Hemingway’s cats are much more than just pets; they represent the enduring bond between humans and animals, as well as the distinctive character of Hemingway himself. The polydactyl cats, with their extra toes, are a symbol of individuality and uniqueness—traits that Hemingway valued deeply in his own life.

Today, the legacy of Hemingway’s cats is carried on not only by the descendants that live in Key West but also by the many people who visit the Hemingway Home and Museum. These cats, with their extra toes and their connection to one of the most famous writers in history, continue to capture the imagination of visitors and cat lovers alike. Their presence serves as a reminder that Hemingway’s love for cats was as distinctive and enduring as the characters in his novels.


Conclusion

Ernest Hemingway’s relationship with cats, particularly polydactyl cats, is an integral part of his legacy. His love for these animals, and the unique charm of the extra-toed felines, reflects the same individuality and nonconformity that marked his writing and his life. Whether it’s through the polydactyl cats that still roam his former home in Key West or the continuing fascination with Hemingway’s feline companions, his love for cats is a timeless aspect of his personal history that continues to delight and inspire to this day.





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