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Dead Cat Strategy

“Dead cat” is defined as a piece of violent or jeering criticism or an insulting or abusive expression of disapproval. However, the metaphorical and literal use of the phrase “dead cat” has been referenced in culture and literature for centuries, and is synonymous with the phrase Red herring, which can be traced back as a method to distract hounds as early as 1807 in a magazine called Political Register.

Dead cat strategy is a modern term that draws from the definition of "dead cat," used to describe a political strategy intended to distract away from a topic or issue that may sway public opinion or approval.

Origins

Actual deceased cats have been used to scent-train for hounds for centuries, with red herring suggested as well. The deceased animal would be dragged through a trail or path while the hounds followed the scent from behind. The first known use of the phrase "dead cat strategy" can be traced back to a 2013 article in The Daily Telegraph by Boris Johnson regarding Australian political strategist Lynton Crosby, where Johnson likened Crosby's tactics to "throwing a dead cat on the table", which is otherwise known as a wedge strategy.

Modern Use in Politics

Most recently, "dead cat strategy" has been mentioned in political articles in the United States, Australia and Europe. Multiple articles from multiple sources have used the phrase "dead cat strategy" in reference to President of the United States Donald Trump, as early as the first week of his presidency.

Numerous instances have been cited claiming the president and his administration have strategically released information that overshadows and distracts from other divisive or controversial actions.