Fostering is a good lower-commitment option to see if a new type of pet is a good fit for you/your home.

If you've never had a cat before, another idea is to visit Kitty Korner in Barre and spend some time in the cat lounge. That way you can meet a bunch of different cats, see a variety of personalities, and get a sense of what cat would be the best fit for you; one that's extra cuddly, one that's extra playful, one that's a little more independent, more/less vocal, etc.