Cat Goes for Ride from Middletown to Portsmouth in Engine Bay

After hanging on for a ride wedged against the engine block of Portsmouth woman’s car on Christmas Day, the folks at Potter League for animals decided to name him Asher.

The name means happy and blessed “which is a perfect way to describe this young feline,” said Kerry McKinnon of the Potter League.

He’s independent, neutered, happy and has not been claimed by his owner since the incident, which ended with a Portsmouth police officer freeing him with help from Ray’s Towing, who jacked up the car.

Portsmouth Police said the driver reported driving home from Stop and Shop in Middletown and when she pulled into the parking lot of her apartment complex, she heard a cat’s meow.

Police arrived to find the woman and her daughter loking under the car with a flashlight. The white and gray cat could be seen “pinned down above the wheel well and next to the engine block,” according to a police report.

The driver told police she called AAA but they told her to call police.

Officer Silva tried to free the cat for some time, but was unsuccessful until the car was lifted with a jack.

McKinnon said Asher has been examined and has been given a clean bill of health. The cat reportedly showed no signs of being injured when rescued.

Asher was held as a stray for some time but since he has not been claimed, he is now available for adoption.

According to staff notes at the Potter League, Asher does not have experience with dogs and would do best as an only cat with teens and adults.