E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Cat and Kittens.
A public-house sign, alluding to the pewter-pots so called. Stealing these pots is termed “Cat and kitten sneaking.” We still call a large kettle a kitchen, and speak of a soldier’s kit (Saxon, cytel, a pot, pan, or vessel generally.)
