I don't know how old you are, but when I was in the 4th grade I did a paper on siamese cats. I think it was my first research paper. Doing that paper sparked a lifelong interest in cat breeds, colors, patterns, and genetics that exists today (and 4th grade was a long, long time ago!). My sources were sparse way back when, but nowadays a click of the mouse brings more information about anything than you could ever want to know. In fact, just last week I found a site on, you guessed it, cat genetics that I found very interesting. I could have used it for my paper way back when. But then, I did get a 100 on my paper, so I guess my little World Book encyclopedia did okay. I think a subject with some socially redeeming value would be a very good idea, too, such as the puppy mill issue or pet overpopulation and euthanasia. Good luck on your paper!