Meaning
- To do or say something that causes a lot of trouble, confusion, or disturbance.
- Creating a situation where things go awry, often unexpectedly or unintentionally, much like releasing a cat into a group of pigeons would cause chaos.
- The phrase derives from the visual scenario of a cat entering a space occupied by pigeons, which would naturally lead to confusion and disorder.
Variations
- Setting the cat among the pigeons
- Throwing the cat among the pigeons
Sentence Examples
- Her suggestion to cut the budget for staff salaries really put the cat among the pigeons at the meeting.
- When he shared the company’s secret plans with the competitors, it was like putting the cat among the pigeons.
- The new policy on remote work has put the cat among the pigeons, and everyone’s been arguing about it ever since.
- Announcing that they were merging the two departments definitely put the cat among the pigeons among the employees.
- Asking about their salary increases at the press conference put the cat among the pigeons, causing an uproar in the media.
Putting the Cat among the Pigeons Synonyms
Here are some synonyms or phrases with a similar meaning to “putting the cat among the pigeons” (i.e you can use any of them to express the idea of introducing an element that causes chaos or disruption):
- Stirring the pot – Creating trouble or causing confusion.
- Rocking the boat – Disrupting the status quo or causing trouble.
- Throwing a spanner in the works – Disrupting a plan or causing complications.
- Opening a can of worms – Introducing a situation that leads to complex problems or complications.
- Ruffling feathers – Annoying or upsetting people, causing disturbance.
- Making waves – Causing a disturbance or creating a commotion.
- Starting a fire – Causing trouble or stirring up conflict.
Putting the Cat among the Pigeons Quotes
If you want to incorporate the phrase “Putting the Cat among the Pigeons” into your social media posts and captions, here are a few creative ways to do so—whether you’re aiming for a motivational, humorous, relatable, or seasonal vibe.
Motivational:
- “Sometimes, you have to put the cat among the pigeons to shake things up and make real progress.”
- “Don’t be afraid to stir the pot—sometimes, putting the cat among the pigeons is exactly what you need to break free from the norm.”
- “Change doesn’t come without a little chaos. Embrace the challenge and put the cat among the pigeons.”
Funny:
- “When you tell your friends you’re cooking dinner and then surprise them with sushi… putting the cat among the pigeons in the best way!
- “Introducing a new office policy? Sounds like a perfect opportunity for putting the cat among the pigeons.
- “Trying to explain to your dog why they can’t have more treats… definitely putting the cat among the pigeons.
Relatable:
- “Ever had that moment when you say something and instantly realize you’ve put the cat among the pigeons?
- “When you’re the only one who didn’t get the memo about the meeting change… yeah, I just put the cat among the pigeons.
- “Trying to tell your family you’re vegan at Thanksgiving—talk about putting the cat among the pigeons.
Seasonal:
- “As the year wraps up, don’t be afraid to put the cat among the pigeons and make those bold moves.
- “The holiday season is here, and you know what that means—putting the cat among the pigeons with every unexpected gift.
- “Winter’s chill brings out the bold moves—time to put the cat among the pigeons and make things happen!