Cat survives entire 35 minute cycle in washing machine after climbing in for nap

A hardy cat survived an entire 35 minute cycle after climbing into his family’s washing machine for a nap.

One year-old Felix emerged soaking but alive after the unexpected bath at his home in Saint Paul, Minnesota, last week.

Owner Stefani Carroll-Kirchoff spotted the stricken cat’s paw sticking out of the pile of clothes, and rushed him to her local emergency veterinarian clinic.

Felix was blinded by the incident, and left with pneumonia from the amount of water in his lungs. He was also covered with bruises.

Happily, he is now beginning to recover, and can see as well as eat.

The kitty is still on oxygen, and has so far run-up $7,000 of medical bills.

Carol-Kirchoff says she is usually vigilant about checking her three cats aren’t in the washing machine before using it.

The shaken animal-lover told CNN: ‘I’ve been in shock the last few days. I mean, this is going to haunt me for the rest of my life.’

Carol-Kirchoff works at a pet grooming salon, and has owned cats for the last 11 years.

She also works at a local wildlife rehabilitation center, and says Felix’s brush with death has galvanized her to battle even more for animal rights.

She explained: ‘It’s given me a reason to fight harder for animals and their well-being

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help with Felix’s medical expenses. To donate or learn more, click here.