I highly recommend a cat. I've been reading your thread in the dog thread. I used to think I was a "dog person" and didn't like cats. Then I had one! Now I have 8. But the first one is still my big baby. I really think that a cat would fit your lifestyle better than a dog. Not that there's anything wrong with dogs, but they do require alot more work and attention than a cat. And there are cats that have personalities that are similiar to a dog. Ones that love to be with people and to be held. Get to know the kitty. One observation I have made, and it is not in any way to be viewed as a rule, but from what I have noticed, male kitties tend to be very affectionate with their person. Hope you find what you're looking for. And it is good that you are thinking ahead and not making any rash decisions.

PS I named my kitty, Morgan, because of Garth Brooks' song 2 Pina Coladas.