Man, that is totally crazy. I hate to think what could have happened to him if you didn't hear him.
Cats aren't for everyone, but we have 2 of them, and you get a lot from them for a relatively low amount of work. Cleaning the litter box and filling their food and water bowls daily is about all they need, plus their annual vet visit.
One of ours is very social and affectionate, she cuddles and purrs so much at times it can get annoying. The other one just does his own thing, when people come over he is upstairs hiding under a bed as soon as the doorbell rings.