Cats from pit scared by a group of ferocious animals (5)

I believe the answer is:

pride

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'cats' is the definition.
(I have seen 'big cats' mean 'pride' so perhaps 'cats' could also mean 'pride')

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pride that I've seen before include "They say it comes before a fall" , "big cats" , "Novel by Jane Austen" , "Company of lions" , "Leonine family" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.