HELP! I’m Terrified About Sending My Cat Overseas! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Hello Dr Paola,
I live in Oman, and rescued a Persian doll face and her kittens from the streets. I’ve had them for 2 years now, but unfortunately we have to move, and my Mom isn’t letting me take them with us. I’ve tried to get them adopted here, but had no luck, so my only option was to reach out to shelters abroad since there aren’t any here. I found a rescue in Canada that agreed to take them, but my issue is that they’ll have to travel in cargo, and the temperature here in Oman can get up to almost 50oC (122oF). Will they be okay?
I am honestly losing sleep over this and waking up with panic attacks every day.
The Persian is 5 years old. When she was outdoors, she was panting and drooling from the heat. Please, do you have any advice? Would you recommend I send her abroad? I’m really scared about the temperature because it really is extremely hot here, and I don’t know what the temperature will be like in cargo.”
– Dana
Quick Info about Persian and her kittens
Dear Dana,
First, I want to acknowledge how much you care about these cats. The fact that you’re losing sleep over this decision tells me you’ve been carrying a tremendous sense of responsibility for them. You rescued them from the streets, gave them a safe home for two years, and are now trying to secure their future. That is an act of compassion, even though the situation is incredibly difficult.
Your concern about the heat is very valid. Persian cats, even doll-face Persians, can be more vulnerable to heat stress than many other cats, and a history of panting and drooling in hot weather suggests your cat may not tolerate extreme temperatures well. The good news is that reputable airlines that transport pets internationally generally keep live animals in a temperature-controlled, pressurized section of the aircraft, not in the same conditions as regular cargo.
The greatest risk is often not during the flight itself, but during ground handling, loading, unloading, and transfers. Because temperatures in Oman can approach 50°C (122°F), I would strongly encourage working closely with the airline and rescue organization to arrange travel during the coolest months possible, select flights that depart or arrive during cooler times of day, minimize layovers, and verify the airline’s live-animal temperature policies. Many airlines have temperature restrictions specifically to protect pets and may refuse transport if conditions are unsafe.
If the Canadian rescue is experienced with international cat transport, they have likely navigated these concerns before and may be able to recommend the safest route and season. From an animal welfare perspective, I would generally consider a carefully planned journey to a reputable rescue preferable to abandonment or an uncertain future on the streets. Think of the trip as a short, stressful bridge to a potentially much safer life.
Before committing, I would ask the rescue and airline detailed questions about temperature controls, transfer procedures, and contingency plans for delays. Having those answers may help replace some of the fear with concrete information and allow you to make the most informed decision for your Persian and her kittens.
Best wishes,
– Dr. Paola