Separate the 2 halves of the machine by unscrewing the THREE large screws along the lower front edge
NOTE: the 3 screws are circled in blue above
Gently separate the 2 halves and you should see something like the next picture:
NOTE: Circled in yellow you can see a ribbon connector (LEFT) and small power connector (RIGHT)
Gently prise off both of these connectors - which will separate the two halves of the machine completely
Now place the lower half somewhere out of the way - away from any cats!