It is the kind of story that makes your heart skip a beat—then breathe a sigh of relief.
A young feline has made headlines after enduring something no one would ever expect.
This heart-stopping incident is both a lesson and a reminder for every pet owner.
A washing machine accident that shocked pet owners
Nine-month-old Pablo, a Burmese kitten from the Gold Coast, became the poster cat for survival after enduring an unimaginable ordeal.
Without anyone noticing, Pablo slipped into the family’s front-loader washing machine and settled in for a cosy nap.
Moments later, the machine was turned on for a cold cycle. Unaware that their pet was trapped inside, Pablo’s owner began the wash.
For 55 minutes, the cycle ran—soapy, sudsy, and life-threatening. When the door finally opened, Pablo was found in critical condition.
He was rushed to the Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH), where the veterinary team described the case as one of the most severe they had ever seen.
Ella Yarsley, a SASH staff member, said: ‘He was probably in the most dire condition I’ve seen in a case in a long time. Not many have seen cats go through a whole cycle and survive… it was pretty close to a miracle.’
Pablo suffered brain injury, lung trauma and even lost several toes. Despite the trauma, he pulled through.
Thanks to swift action from his owner and expert care from the vets, Pablo is now almost back to full health.
It is a story that highlights the resilience of animals—and the hidden dangers inside our homes.
Not the first of its kind: Another washing machine mishap
Pablo’s ordeal is not entirely unique. In July 2020, another Burmese cat named Oscar, from the Sunshine Coast, experienced a similar situation.
Oscar’s owner, Amanda Meredith, recalled hearing unusual meows after her husband loaded the washing machine with bed sheets.
At first, Amanda thought the sound was coming from a nearby cupboard. But the cries continued.
To her horror, she realised Oscar was trapped inside the spinning machine. His little paws were pressed against the glass.
Oscar’s cycle lasted 12 minutes on a hot setting—with detergent. He, too, was rushed to the vet and survived.
Dr Dan Capps, the attending vet, remarked: ‘This is not the first time this has happened. During the cooler weather, it is the perfect place for feline friends to try and hide for a warm nap.’
Why do cats love washing machines?
It is not just washing machines that attract cats. They naturally seek small, enclosed spaces—like boxes, drawers and laundry baskets.
This behaviour is instinctual, inherited from their wild ancestors who sought hidden spaces for warmth and safety.
Add to that the lingering scent of laundry and the quiet darkness inside the drum, and it becomes the perfect hiding spot.
How to keep your pets safe
- Always check inside your washing machine before switching them on.
- Keep appliance doors closed when not in use.
- Place a reminder or sign near the laundry area.
- Offer alternative warm napping spots like a cat bed in a sunny corner or a soft blanket inside a cardboard box.
The bottom line: A cautionary tale with a hopeful ending
Pablo and Oscar’s stories remind us that even routine tasks like doing the laundry can pose serious risks to our curious companions.
They also shine a light on the remarkable strength of animals—and the dedication of the veterinary teams who save them.
Have you ever had a close call with a pet and a household appliance? Or do you have useful advice for keeping animals safe in the home?
We invite you to share your thoughts and tips in the comments below—your story could make a real difference.
Also read: Winter hazards every pet owner should watch for—are you prepared?
