It's not that money is no object, it is in some cases impossible to transport them in the cabin. If the animal is too big, you simply cannot bring them on board.

In the OP's case, I would drive; I have driven. Absent that, and most likely cannot transport 2 adult cats in one kennel, I would pay to have a friend fly with me and carry the second cat in the cabin.

In a case where driving isn't an option such as moving overseas, there may simply be no way to avoid it other than leaving your pet behind. While I don't like it, sometimes cargo cannot be avoided. Continental has a good reputation for its PetSafe program. I would also recommend following advice given elsewhere. Notify the gate agent of the pet on board. Notify the pilot or lead FA so that the pressure and temperature in the cargo hold is checked and to ask for confirmation that the pet has been loaded. Finally, if you have a connection, do everything all over again for the new flight.

I remember the old Airport UK show which took place at Heathrow (??) and they showed their entire kennel and animal handling situation. I would not hesitate to put my dog in their hands. Those folks were incredible.