Cats are usually a pet for lonely single women, however since most men are lazy and cats are very low maintenance they can make good pets for men as well.  Don't name the cat something a women would like "pickles" or "mr. scruffle", instead use a human name like "Steve" or "Bill", basically because it's funny, and you're friends won't think you're gay.

If you do get a cat the perfect number is two. If you have one cat it'll get lonely, and only crazies have three or more. We recommend one boy and one girl. Fixed, of course.  If you're going to get only one cat, get a male, they're less moody.

Be sure to have a good vacuum, and be prepared to vacuum a lot, cats are notorious for shedding, and get a scratching post and hope that you're cat won't shread up your leather couch or other expensive furniture.

If you find you're getting behind in vacuuming, try a robot vacuum like a Roomba. Best investment ever in our opinion. Buy online from Hammacher Schlemmer for a life-time warranty.