An 11-year-old cat named Minam has survived a harrowing ordeal after being accidentally trapped inside a running tumble dryer for approximately four hours. The incident, which occurred last Wednesday morning in Melbourne, has prompted veterinarians to remind pet owners about the importance of checking appliances before use, especially during colder weather.
Minam's owner, Syma, discovered the cat inside the dryer after returning home from work and childcare drop-offs. She believes Minam, seeking a warm place to sleep, crawled into the machine and was hidden by a duvet. "I left for work and to drop my kid off at kinder and I came back about four hours later and didn't see him in his little house," Syma told 7News.
Upon hearing faint meows from the dryer, Syma opened the door to find Minam on the duvet. While initially appearing normal, the cat soon began panting and showed signs of distress, including drool on his mouth. The pair immediately sought veterinary care at Lort Smith Animal Hospital.
At the hospital, Minam was diagnosed with severe injuries including full-body bruising, a swollen tongue, dehydration, and damage to his mouth and eyes. Vets believe the duvet may have offered some protection against more severe harm. Minam spent two days in an oxygen tank in the hospital's intensive care unit.
Remarkably, Minam has made a full recovery. "He's completely fine. You'd never think that he was in the dryer at all. He's completely demanding cuddles and pats and food all the time," Syma reported a week after the incident, though she admitted to being traumatized and feeling guilt over the event.
Dr. Kassandra Makeham, head veterinarian at Lort Smith Animal Hospital, emphasized that pets often seek out warm, enclosed spaces, making appliances like dryers and washing machines a particular hazard. "As the weather gets colder, cats are naturally drawn to warm, enclosed spaces, including clothes dryers and washing machines," Dr. Makeham stated. "When incidents like this happen, the consequences can be devastating."
Dr. Makeham urged all pet owners to make a habit of checking inside dryers and washing machines before operating them. "Taking a few extra seconds to check inside your dryer or washing machine before turning it on could save your cat's life," she advised, noting the warning is especially pertinent during winter months.
