Cat's Paw

      

cat's paw

A dupe or tool for another, a sucker, as in You always try to make a cat's paw of me, but I refuse to do any more of your work. This term alludes to a very old tale about a monkey that persuades a cat to pull chestnuts out of the fire so as to avoid burning its own paws. The story dates from the 16th century and versions of it (some with a dog) exist in many languages.

Cat's Paw Nebula

Adopt Cat's Paw

Heh. Our own Montana Cat's Paw

  Don't miss this charming photoset/ slideshow, from Cilest

Carnival of the Cats; Friday Ark; Carnival of the Dogs 2004 Review

Thanks to Music and Cats for the lovely inspiration.  Happy weekend!