Hi Everyone
Regarding the issue of cats, I think I remember reading something about a spray you can buy that will keep them out of your plants. I don't know how effective it would be though.
I think the best thing to do is just erect some sort of barrier or something that will keep them from attacking the plants.
Some people grow their plants inside an empty fish aquarium tank... that would definitely keep the kitties out, if you have a top or a lid for the tank.