Sooty the cat gets leg stuck in washing machine door

The RSPCA has put out the reminder after a recent case where 19-year-old Sooty was found by his owner with his leg stuck in the washing machine door.

RSPCA animal collection officer Cara Gibbon was called out to Sooty's home in Tipton.

She said: "Sooty’s owner had been out at work and returned to find the poor puss dangling from the washing machine with one of his rear legs trapped in the door hinge.

"He was completely wedged. I have no idea how he managed to get into that predicament"

After taking the door off of its hinges and carefully wiggling Sooty to get him free, Cara eventually freed Sooty after covering his leg in washing up liquid.

She said: "Thankfully he wasn’t injured - just a little embarrassed. It was a weird and wonderful job.

"I’m just pleased that this old boy is okay - and hopefully he won’t be going near the washing machine again."

The RSPCA has issued a reminder to pet owners to ensure that their pets can get themselves caught or stuck in any items around the home.

Cara said: "A lot of people are told to leave the doors to washing machines and dishwashers open to allow the inside to air out, but if you have pets, I’d always advise keeping them shut.

"Pets do have this strange way of being able to get themselves stuck in all sorts of weird and wonderful places so it’s always best to be safe and not sorry."

To donate to the RSPCA, go to www.rspca.org.uk/give.