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Why does the fish object to the Cat in the Hat’s visit?
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Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss and some of his characters, from a commemorative U.S. postage stamp, 2004.
In The Cat in the Hat, the fish serves as the voice of caution, repeatedly warning the children against allowing the Cat to stay while their mother is away. The fish objects to the Cat’s presence because the visitor is a disruptive, mischievous influence who creates chaos in the house.1
Specifically, the fish is concerned about the mess and the unruly behavior introduced by the Cat, such as when the Cat balances household items precariously or releases the chaotic Thing One and Thing Two, who proceed to fly kites indoors and damage the home. Throughout the visit, the fish consistently urges the children to send the Cat away, viewing his actions as reckless and inappropriate for the children to host in their mother's absence.1