I tend to think anything but TOTL B&W stuff is too beamy and doesn't create warmth and enveloping realism, but that goes back aways.
In addition to passive ATCs, which I think you would like a lot, I think you should check out DeVore speakers. There are some on Audiogon right now that are below, just above and way above your price range, but there will be others out there as well. The aesthetic and cat-friendliness is right and the sound is great.