Schools and law enforcement in the US are issuing warnings regarding a viral social media trend known as the “Cat in the Hat” trend. This trend involves the use of disturbing or AI-generated images of the Dr Seuss character to make threats against students, schools, and communities.
Safety concerns are rising, and several teenagers have been arrested or charged in connection with posts linked to this trend. The trend, which originated in Ireland and the UK in August 2026, quickly spread to parts of the United States and Canada.
Authorities are cautioning that even if users consider the trend a hoax, causing fear for safety could be deemed criminal harassment. For example, a 15-year-old near Wichita, Kansas, was arrested and charged with two counts of criminal threat after allegedly posting a video with ominous threats towards students.
Similarly, two students at Worth County High School in Georgia are facing charges for their alleged participation in the trend. In Colorado, a 14-year-old student was arrested following a Cat in the Hat post, prompting increased police presence at West Middle School and Grand Junction High School.
Law enforcement is advising students to report any safety concerns to a trusted adult, school administrator, or police official, rather than sharing or reposting the content.