Hello, I just saw this.

Oh yes, please get your cat into Canada. If Sweet Annie (who is a very shy cat) can safely make that flight, then a more reserved cat, like your Sam should have no problems. As a matter of fact, I never had any doubts that she would do just fine.

AND, you will find that there will be MANY procedures to go through if Sam is sent to Australia. Will the person be willing to spend the time and money for that? Canada will accept the cat much easier.

My biggest suggestion for preparation before flight is to make sure that Sam can calmly stay in a carrier for extended periods. And since this trip seems months away, there is plenty of time for your friend to acclimate him to a carrier.

I sure hope that you can get your kitty back. That would be sweet.