I want to take my 2 adult nervous cats back to Thailand. Is there an alternate way of travel than flying?Ship?

take them to the vet perhaps they'll be able to give your cats a sedative.

Have you checked to see how long they'll have to be quarantined? That could mean months on a ship and then 6 months or more in a cage in a strange place.

The shortest possible route is best. Flying would be better if you can have them in the cabin with you. You'll probably need a COUPLE of rounds of tranquilizers though, for an overseas trip.

There is a LOT to consider here. Be sure to check restrictions on bringing in animals and quarantines.

Is there someone "here" that can keep them for you?

I have taken my dogs several places by airplane, Continental Airlines only since they handle the pets well and have better pressure in the quarters where the pets are flown than other carriers. All I can think of is that if I was a pet I would want to be separated from my owner for the shortest time possible and that would be by plane and not by ship cargo. If they can fly under your seat it would be good.

I hate cats, but even I wouldn't travel overseas in anything but a jet. They will die on a ship, in a cage, for possibly weeks rather than the 15 to 24 hours it would take to dope and fly the disgusting animals. Don't forget, customs is tighter on the docks than at the airport in that country.

Go see your vet before travel. By boat takes so much longer and can increase the problems your cats are having. A shorter plane trip can be fixed by some meds from your vet.

Best of luck!

Go to the vet and get a sedative.