Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai

Dubai, Oct 23: A pet owner's agonizing 10-day wait came to a joyful end after her ginger cat, which had gone missing at the Dubai International Airport, was safely located and flown back to her in Sri Lanka.

Avishka Kaumadi was finally reunited with her beloved pet, Chuuti, who immediately recognised her and responded to her voice. Though the feline had lost weight and was covered in grime after surviving in the airport's Terminal 1 baggage area, he was otherwise safe. Kaumadi immediately took him for a veterinary check-up following the emotional reunion.

The ordeal began on October 11, when Kaumadi was scheduled to fly from Dubai to Sri Lanka. Chuuti was booked to travel as air cargo. After completing all necessary documentation, payments, and inspections, Kaumadi cleared immigration—only to receive a devastating phone call informing her that the cat had escaped from his carrier.

Refusing to board her flight without her pet, Kaumadi rushed back and spent over an hour desperately searching the cargo area alongside a staff member. She remained at the airport for nearly 28 hours hoping for positive news before eventually having to travel to Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, airport personnel and UAE-based animal rescue platforms continued the search, strategically placing food around the premises to lure the frightened feline.

Ten days later, the coordinated efforts of SriLankan Airlines, dnata, and Dubai airport authorities paid off when Chuuti was safely secured.

Speaking to Gulf News shortly after the reunion, an overjoyed Kaumadi expressed her profound relief and gratitude. "When I went up to him and spoke to him, he answered me in his own voice," she told the publication. She extended her thanks to the authorities and the online community, noting that the constant prayers and kindness of strangers gave her strength during the most painful days of her life.