Meet Mittens, the Maine coon cat who had an adventure of a lifetime—though she probably didn’t ask for it. Earlier this month, Mittens was supposed to take a one-way flight with her family from Christchurch, New Zealand, to their new home in Melbourne, Australia. But things took a wild turn when her cage was accidentally left in the plane’s cargo hold, sending her on not one, but three trips between the two countries in just 24 hours.

Mittens’ owner, Margo Neas, waited anxiously at the airport for her beloved pet to be unloaded. Hours passed with no sign of the fluffy traveler. “I said, how can this happen? Oh my God,” Neas recalled. It turns out, the plane had already returned to New Zealand—with Mittens still on board. Talk about a mix-up!

The airline staff quickly sprang into action. The pilot turned on the heating in the cargo hold to keep Mittens comfortable during the long flight back, and a pet moving company ensured she made it safely to Melbourne on her next attempt.

Thankfully, Mittens arrived unharmed, though a bit lighter after her unexpected journey. “She basically just ran into my arms and did the biggest cuddles of all time,” Neas shared. “It was such a relief.”

Air New Zealand has apologized for the mishap and promised to cover all costs related to Mittens’ travel. They’re also working to make sure this doesn’t happen again.

As for Mittens? She’s been showered with love and attention since her return. “She’s the cuddliest she’s ever been,” Neas said. After that whirlwind adventure, she’s earned every bit of it!