How many toes does a mouse have on its paws? - briefly
A mouse possesses five toes on each fore‑paw and four toes on each hind‑paw.
How many toes does a mouse have on its paws? - in detail
Mice possess a distinct digit arrangement on each pair of paws. The forepaws contain four well‑developed toes, each ending in a small claw that aids in grasping and manipulating food. The hind paws are equipped with five toes; the extra digit provides additional traction for rapid locomotion and climbing.
- Forelimb digits: 4
- Hindlimb digits: 5
- Total count per animal: 9
The fourth digit on the front limbs is slightly reduced, reflecting the evolutionary shift toward a more specialized forelimb function. Hind‑limb toes are more robust, supporting the animal’s weight during jumps and sprints. Muscular and skeletal structures differ between the two sets, with the hind limbs showing stronger flexor tendons and larger phalangeal bones.
Variations among rodent species are minor. Most members of the genus Mus share this configuration, while related species such as the deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) display the same digit count but may have subtle differences in claw curvature and pad thickness. These adaptations contribute to the mouse’s ability to navigate diverse substrates, from smooth laboratory surfaces to rough natural terrain.