Do cats eat midges, where does the phrase come from? - briefly
Cats do not typically eat midges as they are too small and not easily caught by cats. The phrase "like trying to catch flies with chopsticks" is used to describe an attempt at something that is very difficult or impossible to achieve.
Do cats eat midges, where does the phrase come from? - in detail
The notion that cats consume midges is not entirely accurate and is often misunderstood due to its association with an old English proverb. To fully comprehend this idea, it is essential to delve into both biological facts and linguistic origins.
Biologically, cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet primarily consists of meat. They derive essential nutrients from animal tissue and do not typically exhibit a strong inclination towards insects like midges. While some cats may occasionally catch and consume small insects as part of their hunting behavior, this is more of a recreational activity rather than a significant component of their diet. Midges, being tiny two-winged flies, are generally too small to be considered a substantial or preferred food source for felines.
The phrase in question, often translated from the original Russian, is "Кошка съедает комаров" (Koshka syedaet komarov), which translates to "The cat eats flies." The origins of this expression can be traced back to an old Russian proverb, which was later adapted into English. The essence of the proverb lies in its metaphorical meaning rather than its literal interpretation. It is used to describe a situation where someone or something takes on more than they can handle, often resulting in chaos or disorder. For example, if a cat were to attempt to eat numerous flies at once, it would likely create a mess and be unable to manage the task effectively.
In conclusion, while cats do not typically consume midges as part of their regular diet, the phrase has become ingrained in language due to its metaphorical significance in describing an unmanageable situation. Understanding the distinction between the biological reality and the linguistic heritage allows for a more nuanced appreciation of this expression.