Chapter 16: Here Kitty Kitty Summary and Analysis

For the first time, Hope Finch shows signs of mental distress when she thinks Freud, the family cat, talks to her in her dreams. In a state of severe agitation, she traps the cap in a laundry hamper and watches it for three days.

Dr. Finch listens to Hope's concerns in a very professional manner, showing his schooling and intellect. He then veers from the norm when he performs a bible-dip to decide how to handle Hope's case. He determines to allow her to watch the cat.

After one week of confinement in the hamper without food or water, the cat dies. Even after the cat's death, Hope hears its cries. Augusten, fearing for Hope, calls Dr. Finch at work. The doctor manages to call his daughter, but Hope continues to suffer bouts of mental...