Have (someone) by the short hairs British informal verb phrase
"Have" can be replaced by "get".
To have someone in a difficult situation in which you have complete power over them
I had Jay by the short hairs because I knew what he had done.
He had us by the short hairs when he found out about our little secret.
I cannot do anything against him because he has my by the short hairs.
The verb "catch" should be conjugated according to its tense.
Daughter: So I really want all my friends to have a great time. I was thinking it would be a good idea to have some candy out on the tables for people to snack on.
Mother: Well, if you want them to really enjoy themselves, candy is dandy but liquor is quicker.