More: Sayings and superstition
Long-hand explanation:
The phrase “having kittens” to describe someone who is extremely upset or anxious likely originates from older superstitions and expressions related to cats and childbirth.
One theory traces it back to medieval folklore, where it was believed that pregnant women who were startled or frightened could “give birth” to kittens. This superstition was widespread enough that women were sometimes accused of witchcraft if they claimed to have suffered such experiences.
Over time, the phrase evolved into a more figurative expression. By the 19th and early 20th centuries, “having kittens” was used in British slang to mean being highly agitated, distressed, or overly anxious—akin to a cat in distress. The imagery of a cat frantically giving birth may have contributed to the association with extreme emotional upheaval.
Today, “having kittens” is often used humorously to describe someone being overly worried or dramatic about a situation.
