E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Quarrel with your Bread and Butter (To).
To act contrary to your best interest; to snarl at that which procures your living, like a spoilt child, who shows its ill-temper by throwing its bread and butter to the ground. To cut off your nose to be avenged on your face.
