[scottmandue]

Another cat person, also like the Asian cats... yes they are chatty but never had a problem with one going on and on... matter of fact I thought it was cool we could have conversations.
Probably my favorite was a big orange/white Tabby.
Never had a problem with a pound cat but my parents had cats and I have always had cats so when I go to the pound I don't just pick out a pretty one. I look for a healthy appearance and a friendly demeanor, I get it out of the cage and press it to my ear and listen to its breathing and heart beat, then examine it's ears/nose/mouth/teeth.
One lady looked at me funny and asked if I was a Vet.
But hey, you should get a PPI if you are going to buy a car right?

And people are allergic to cat saliva not cat hair, so maybe the bath thing would help. but start them early, Bathing a full grown cat that is not used to it is no fun (and may require welding gloves).