I do not go to shelters for cats. They just show up and move in. I concur with the people who suggest getting two. Some cats would prefer to be the only cat in a household, but most like to have a companion.
On the subject of guys owning cats, I suggest watching this instructional video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHXBL6bzAR4
Same here. I was recently adopted by one of the "associate cats" in our neighborhood. (That's "alley cats" to those who don't understand cats.)
My present cat minds his own business, mostly, and doesn't demand affection, gets fed twice a day, lives outside until November, at which time I'll let him in the basement. He was positively skeletal when he wandered over to my porch, and now he looks very well fed and serene. This gives me pleasure.
Cats are simple creatures. Low maintenance, easy on the eyes, easy to read, and you can say things to them that you'd never say to a dog (or a parrot). And still, if you want to be loved up they will convince you they enjoy it, and if you want them to amuse you, it isn't too hard to make them do ridiculous things.
I have to go find a flashlight now...