This is a commonly used phase when describing a "very angry" person or person acting in a "crazy manner".
For example My boss was madder than a box of cats when he didn't get his monthly report on time
or My mum was madder than a box of cats with my dad on Friday.
Really angry, may incite a physical altercation.
(Girlfriend after boyfriend caught cheating)
Catching him kissing my best friend just made me madder than a baptist in a brothel!