Cat Sayings and How They Originated

You’ve probably used the saying ‘Cat got your tongue?’ before. There are actually quite a few sayings about our feline friends … and many of them are as quirky and puzzling as Fluffy herself! A local vet lists some of the more popular ones below.

The Cat’s Pajamas

Back in the 20’s, the word ‘cat’ was used by flappers to describe someone they thought was cool. This saying came into our common vernacular around this time, as did the phrase ‘The Cat’s Meow’. It was first made popular in the comic strip Indoor Sports. The phrase made a comeback in the 60’s, and is still occasionally used this way today. (Note: do not put pajamas on Fluffy.)

Look What The Cat Dragged In

It’s not hard to sort out where this one came from. We first befriended Fluffy because of her hunting skills. As anyone whose furball has brought them ‘presents’ knows, kitties take offering their catch to their humans very seriously. (They also clearly expect praise and rewards.) As to what the kitty that sparked this phrase actually dragged in, well, that’s anyone’s guess. It could be anything from a snake to a porcupine to a skunk. Have we mentioned that we recommend keeping cats indoors?

Raining Cats And Dogs

This saying seems to have originated back when people had thatched roofs. If Fluffy climbed to a high vantage point, she could potentially fall through a sopping wet roof. The ‘cat chphrase’ goes back to at least 1651, when it appeared in Olor Iscanus, a collection of poems.

Cat Burglar

If you’ve ever watched a cat ‘stalking’ a bird or chipmunk, you know that she can move very quietly and gracefully … skills that burglars no doubt seek to emulate. Of course, some kitties have sticky paws. Fluffy has been known to steal toys, underwear, sausages, and even bikinis!

Copycat

If you have more than one kitty, you may notice that Fluffy and Mittens sometimes mirror each other. They may sleep in the same place or position, fight over a toy, or sync up their napping schedules.

Let The Cat Out Of The Bag

We have to admit, we’re a bit purrplexed on this one. Most of our feline patients are more interested in getting into bags than getting out of them!

Please contact us, your local veterinary clinic in Easley, SC, anytime. We’re here to help!