If you're considering getting a cat as a family pet then there a number of things you need to think about before going out an impulsively getting one.
Can you afford a cat? Cats generally live until they're about 15 years old, some live longer and unfortunately some die younger so if you get a cat there will be roughly 15 years of vet bills, cat litter, cat food, flea and worming treatments and other things like cat toys, scratch posts, cat beds, carriers.
For some people who love to spend money on the cats they will always find something new to buy them.
Kitten or Adult Cat? You need to make a decision whether you'll have an adult, for example one from a rescue centre or a new kitten.
Both have advantages and disadvantages.
Lets face it, kittens are cute and I've yet to find a person who does go "aah" when they see a tiny kitten but they are also very destructive little creatures with very sharp teeth and claws.
Cats on the other hand, tend to be a bit calmer, however you'll find that it will be difficult to break any bad habits that you might inherit with them.
Both cats and kittens tend to settle in well and easily make attachments to their new owners.
If you can't decide which gender you want, it really doesn't matter as the don't have gender specific behaviour.
You need to think about where you are going to get your cat or kitten, if you get it from a cat shelter or the cats protection league then you're helping a cat who may have previously been treated badly and in desperate need of love and care.
Understand that no matter whether you get an adult or kitten there will be a settling period and chances are they will destroy at least one of your possessions.
You might find them climbing your curtains or clawing at your furniture but with proper training you can stop this behaviour.