Hi guys. I'll second Jeff as a great resource and a gentleman. Hennings is also top notch.
As far as cats, we've got two. They're great. However, you need to take some precautions with your trains. For us, we keep the cats out of the "playroom" by using something called a "scat mat." These are clear plastic pads, available in different lengths, and they are used to train cats to stay off of furniture or out of forbidden spaces. When the cat steps on the mat, a low voltage jolt will sting them a bit, and they won't go near it again. Put a few of these in the doorway or threshold of the train room, or around the base of the train set, or near your train shelves, and you will not have anymore issues.
Pretty much all furry, four legged pets -- cats and dogs primarily -- will at one time or another do damage to your house or personal belongings. The mats minimize this and also train the animal, humanely.