car rides

Question
Hi,I have a 6 month old female Maine coon cat.When she is in the car with my husband and I,she meows way more than usual and holds her tail straight up.She also likes to look out the window.Does it sound to you like she actually enjoys the car ride?

Answer
Hi Sarah.  Some cats do!  I had one I would bring everywhere with me.  He was always thrilled when we'd go through a drive-through.  He'd try to climb out the window to greet people.

Holding her tail straight up is a sign of excitement, as can excessive vocalization be.  It may very well be she likes to joy ride.

I do, however, have to put in this disclaimer - car rides are dangerous for cats who aren't restrained.  So carefully way the risks and benefits of allowing her to wander freely in the car while it's moving.  I do allow certain individuals to ride in the car unrestrained because they get so upset in a crate, they bump their noses on the grate until they bleed.  But for those who ride in a crate well, I keep them crated and put the seatbelt through the carrying handle, just in case an accident happens.