Traveling with cats in a class B

[Riverlady]

Has anyone tried a Retract-a-Gate to keep cats away from the front of the vehicle? We have 2 cats & have traveled with them once in a rental of the same model we've just ordered (Great West Legend SE). We started out with them in nylon/mesh carriers, seat-belted on the back sofa/bench. One went to sleep. As to the other, after the persistent howling stopped, she appeared at the front of the vehicle, apparently having forced the zipper open! Strong & persistent! So the rest of the trip she was loose, and quite happy lying on the back of the couch looking out the window. I'm just worried about her getting underfoot if the co-pilot isn't watching. (And of course of them getting hurt if there's an accident or sudden stop. I realize a crate would be best, but she was just SO happy moving around a little.) The Retract-a-Gate looks like a possibility, but I'd love some opinions from experienced RV'ers who, like us, just can't leave our furry friends behind.