This phrase describes a specific product niche: feline-themed holiday sweaters designed with intentionally kitsch or humorous aesthetics, typically sold by the retail chain Target. An example would be a knitted garment featuring a cat wearing a Santa hat or entangled in Christmas lights, often incorporating gaudy colors and patterns.
The popularity of these items reflects several converging trends: the widespread embrace of “ugly” sweaters as a playful holiday tradition, the enduring appeal of cat-related merchandise, and the retailer’s prominent role in the seasonal marketplace. This confluence creates a high-demand product category for holiday shoppers seeking lighthearted, festive attire for their pets or themselves. The affordability and accessibility of such products at a major retailer contribute to their appeal.