These are all splendid suggestions. Sounds like you have a Cat Hack of your own in the works.
I agree, it certainly does rub up against the window of not being an RPG. It's a valid and valuable observation! I am all about exploring the periphery of the hobby.
Thank you for giving my game a bit of your time, attention, and constructive feedback! If I circle back for a second edition/sequel, I'll refer back to this post for some vectors of enhancement. Perhaps Cat: Save Us From... Gebbeths. :-)