What a graphic expression and definitely a nightmare generator. Where did it come from? What does it mean? The phrase probably comes from a custom in the Mideast hundreds of years ago, when it was common to punish a thief by cutting off their right hand, and a liar by ripping out their tongue.  These severed body parts were given to the king’s pet cats as their daily food. Wow! That really is yucky. Today the phrase means, "Why aren’t you talking?" The concept is even paraphrased for humor as in, "Why haven’t I heard from you - cat got your pen (or keyboard)?"

Cats are so eloquent that the word "cat" shows up in many everyday expressions. Olympus Dolls (originally from Cat Stuff) even has an entire web page dedicated to cat phrases in common English. You can learn about the expression "catcalls" and "cat’s paw", and many more. But they left out some like: "cathouse" and "bell the cat". May be you should make your own list and share with your cat-loving friends.

Cat Phrases

Posted by Barbara.

Barbara also writes for Creative And Unique Gift Ideas.