Here are a couple of recent papers that I've found on polydactyly characteristics and heterogeneity in maine coons.
The first two papers are published in J FELINE MED SURG and have impact factors in the 3rd quartile for veterinary sciences.
The third paper is older and not specific to maine coons, "Polydactyly in the earliest known tetrapod limbs" - so it's historic. This paper is published in the journal NATURE, which is a very well renowned veterinary source. NATURE has a 2019 journal impact factor of 42.778 - which basically means it's a great source which has many valuable citations.
Have a read if you like :)
Another interesting thing is that polydactyly is common in chickens, and also seen in ruminants such as cattle, horses and camelids.
I'm hoping to add to this one day in the future. It may be a couple of years away, but I have the potential and the opportunity to do some further research through my studies, at The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy Campus.
I'm hoping to include a cohort of Australian and New Zealand maine coon cats that display this dominant trait, and I'd like to follow their lives and several generations for 10+ years to gain a higher understanding of this endearing (and historic) trait.
I want to know if a poly can truly be happy and healthy, without experiencing pain. and if it's linked to morbidity and/or mortality. The current (and few) studies call for further research on a long term scale, and I'd really love to contribute.
Rosie xx
Notes:
1 .These blog posts will likely be developed and added to over time as I learn more information.
2. While some breeding "secrets" are kept as unwritten law, the general concept of what I write here is freely available to find if you look in the right places. The feline associations (Australian/American/European) are a good place to start. The PawPeds website also has some interesting information (not always/strictly scientific though).
3. Some really really important questions for anyone to ask themselves when embarking on new or controversial scientific adventures are:
a) Why am I getting angry about someone pursuing a certain line/trait?
b) Is it because it's scientifically or genetically unsound?
c) Is it unethical?
d) Is it because someone simply "told me it's wrong/right"?
e) Is it fear of the unknown?
4. Be brave. Be courageous. Explore something new.
5. Admit your mistakes and learn from them.
6. Please don't blindly believe me. Also, please don't blindly hate on me if you have no scientific backing.
7. Ask your own questions, and seriously, genuinely, seek answers. Make informed decisions.
8. Lastly, as always, be kind.