The phrase "animal metaphors" refers to using words or phrases that compare or describe people, things, or situations with characteristics or behaviors of animals. Full definition
For thousands of years, ethnic groups have been diminished and dehumanised through animal metaphors. (totalpolitics.com)
A gash of violence finally decides the lady's fate, but we're so numbed by that point by speeches that repeat the same points with different animal metaphors that the resolution carries little impact — as these two might say, like a sparrow thudding against a window. (thewrap.com)
There's also the giant elephant in the room that hasn't been taken into account, but a panther is probably the better animal metaphor. (awardscircuit.com)