On gov visa website you can fill out an e-arrival. This is an option under e visa. This works fine 👍 the option doesn't seem to show up on older iPhones.
There are condos in Bangkok that allow cats unofficially. Inc where I live. My neighbour has two cats and another also (on same floor). You're basically going to have to smuggle them in via carpark and try to keep any catty smells from the hallway. That way juristic will turn a blind eye
Retirement. I hope marriage works out but don't ignore what people are saying. You can have the best intentions but things can go very wrong to the point where you no longer recognize the person you married. Just make sure your future wife is 100% onboard with your future plans here, ie say you see yourself living in Phuket but she wants to stay near her parents. Or family are involved in every decision.