putting the cat among the pigeons
Stirring up trouble
To put the cat among the pigeons is to do or say something that causes trouble, controversy, or agitation—introducing a disruptive element into a settled situation.
The image is of a predator let loose where it will cause panic: Her resignation letter really put the cat among the pigeons.
Common in British English; Americans might say stir the pot or ruffle feathers.
- stirring the potProvoking controversy intentionally
- throwing a wrench in the worksDeliberately disrupting planned operations
- rocking the boatCausing unwanted disruption
- provocationAct that triggers response
- discordLack of agreement
instigation · lighting the fuse · making waves · adding fuel to the fire · fanning the flames · poking the bear · controversy · upheaval · like a bull in a china shop · troublemaking · agitation · confrontation · tension · disturbance · Trojan horse · chaos · sabotage
putting the cat among the pigeonskeeping the peace
Maintaining order and calm
pouring oil on troubled waters · letting sleeping dogs lie · building bridges
putting the cat among the pigeonsbuilding bridges
Fostering relationships between parties
making peace · burying the hatchet · mending fences · letting sleeping dogs lie · clearing the air
putting the cat among the pigeonslowering the temperature