QUOTE (Tanegar @ Jan 13 2011, 04:09 AM)

That might be a concern if the mage were planning to use a metahuman vessel, but we're talking about a housecat here, which raises a number of problems with that scenario. First, can you get ware designed for a cat? Second (I don't have Running Wild, so you can check me on this one) I'm guessing housecats don't exactly have huge stats, meaning a pretty low augmented maximum. A decent-Force materializing ally will probably have better stats anyway, plus access to astral space. IMO, the mage is better off all around just going with a materializing ally.
1) Not only can you get 'ware designed for a cat but it costs 20% less for all of it (
Augmentation, Biodrones section). Also, you could buy a Chimeric/Warform cat (
Running Wild),
then cyber/bio it out, then get it inhabited.
2) Critters do not have augmented max stats. I think that one's in
Running Wild, but I don't remember exactly where I read that one.
Also: your mage hasn't looked at
my guide, has he?