feed the kitty
To give money to a collection or pool. (A "kitty" is such a collection of money.) Once everyone has fed the kitty, I'll deal the next hand.
feed the kitty
Fig. to contribute money. (A kitty here is a small collection of money.) Please feed the kitty. Make a contribution to help sick children. Come on, Bill. Feed the kitty. You can afford a dollar for a good cause.
feed the kitty
Contribute money to a pool or reserve, as in I can't make a big donation this year, but I'm willing to feed the kitty something. This term, originating in gambling, incorporates a pun, since kitty can mean "cat" as well as "pool." [Late 1800s]