A Cat Accident Waiting To Happen That YOU Can Easily Prevent

One of the six most preventable cat accidents is a feline injured when hiding in the washer or dryer.

I noticed a rash of incidents on Facebook this summer where a kitty was injured when the machine was started while they were inside.  It is our worst nightmare!

After a friend had a near miss with Bridgette, her cat, lurking in the washer, I decided it was time to do a little research and create a list of tips to prevent this from happening.

Why Are They Attracted?

Every cat parent or cat sitter understands a pile of warm clothes is like the call of a siren to Fluffy.  How many of us have found our furry loved one snuggled in the clean laundry especially when it is fresh out of the dryer?  Have you left a towel or piece of clothes laying on the floor or bed when you were gone, so the kitty is comforted by the scent?

Also, your kitty loves to find the purrfect cat cave that is quiet, dark, and secluded.  What better place than the washer or dryer?  Front loading machines can be even more tempting due to easy access.  The metal provides a cool spot in the summer, and the warm dryer is quite cozy as the weather cools.

How Can I Prevent It?

  • Post a reminder to double check the contents of the washer or dryer in the laundry room. It may need to be in a second language if English isn’t the primary language of everyone using the equipment.
  • Talk to family about being careful when doing laundry.
  • Don’t forget to speak with your cleaning crew concerning your prevention plan.
  • Be sure to check the laundry basket or dirty clothes hamper before you just dump it into the washer or dryer.
  • Visually check the washer or dryer before you start the cycle. You may want to run your hand through the clothes.
  • Make sure you keep the dryer door closed when not in use.
  • If possible, don’t use your laundry room for kitty’s litter box, food or water.
  • Keep laundry room door closed.

Remember your pet’s safety is in your hands!

P.S.  Stay tuned to learn about the other five accidents and tips on how to prevent them.