RSPCA WA inspectors were called to a rescue with a difference at a Kewdale business on Sunday after a curious kitten managed to get his head stuck in the drain hole of a skip bin.
Cleaners at the site discovered the trapped and troubled tabby and quickly contacted RSPCA WA for help.
Despite several attempts to gently manoeuvre him free, the adventurous kitten remained firmly stuck.
RSPCA WA inspector Shaye Barrow and trainee inspector Sarita Slade attended the scene, spending several hours patiently working to free the frightened feline.
With the help of olive oil, careful teamwork and a mild sedative, the kitten was safely released — a little shaken but physically unscathed.
Back at the RSPCA WA in Malaga he was affectionately christened "Oscar the Grouch". A second kitten found at the site, Skippy, is also in the RSPCA's care.
Inspector Barrow said the rescue was one of the more unusual jobs she had attended.
"We get called to all sorts of situations, but this was definitely a first," she said.
"I have no idea how Oscar had squeezed his head through that tiny hole but by the time we arrived he was frightened, tired and very stuck.
"It took a lot of patience, teamwork and a bit of creative thinking to get him out safely, but thankfully he came through unharmed.
"Once Oscar was free, both kittens bounced back very quickly and after some food, warmth and cuddles, they were soon purring away."
Neither kitten was microchipped – they are believed to be stray siblings. They'll be made available for adoption in the coming weeks.
RSPCA WA is reminding the community that kittens can squeeze into surprisingly small and dangerous spaces.
People are encouraged to check sheds, machinery, vehicles and industrial sites before moving equipment or closing spaces where animals may be hiding.
