10 Russian proverbs about cats
In the Russian language, there are many expressions dedicated to felines. People have noted their agility, grace and, of course, usefulness in the household.
1. “Ne vse kotu Maslenitsa” – “It’s not always Maslenitsa for a cat”
This phrase is part of a proverb that goes as follows: “It’s not always Maslenitsa for a cat, there will also be Great Lent.” The expression implies a simple truth: holidays are followed by everyday life, a streak of luck can be followed by a streak of bad luck.
Find out more about this proverb here.
2. “Otolyutsya koshke myshkiny slezy” – “A mouse's tears will be poured on the cat”
The meaning of this proverb is that the offender will definitely be punished, they will get retribution.
3. “Zhyvut kak koshka s sobakoi” – “They live like a cat and a dog”
This is usually how people who live together, but constantly quarrel, are described. The dog is considered to be physically stronger, while the cat is more cunning, so there is never peace in such a relationship.
4. “Kota v meshke pokupat nelzya” – “You can't buy a cat in a sack”
“Cat in a sack” is buying a product without looking. It is often implied that the seller is silent about any flaws. In Old Russia, they often sold rabbits in sacks, so they wouldn't run away. But, dishonest sellers would often sell stray cats instead of rabbits. This was only usually discovered when the buyer came home.
5. “Kot iz doma, myshi v plyas” – “When the cat is out, the mice dance”
This is exactly how any subordinates behave after their boss leaves.
6. “Nochiu vse koshki serye” – “All cats are gray at night”
When it is difficult to sort out who is right and who is to blame, they say that “all cats are gray at night”. At night, it is true that it is difficult for the human eye to distinguish shades if there is no bright light.
7. “Koshku protiv shersti ne gladyat” – “Don’t stroke a cat against its grain”
A cat is not only a pet, but also a dangerous predator with sharp claws. And she really doesn't like to be stroked against its grain. The meaning of the proverb is that you shouldn't make a predator angry.
8. “Dobroe slovo i koshke priyatno” – “A kind word is pleasant even to a cat”
Although cats don't understand human language, they can sense the mood, how kind-hearted we are to them.
9. “Znai, koshka, svoe lukoshko” – “Know your basket, cat”
This proverb is about not only knowing your abilities, but also not going beyond your responsibilities or what is permitted. So, if someone is interfering with your work, you know what to say to them.
10. “Znaet koshka, chye myaso syela” – “A cat knows whose meat it has eaten”
This is what they say about a person who realizes their guilt, but does not admit it. But, his behavior gives them away.
