All respect, I have to disagree about how cats are. Yes, some cats are more solitary, but I have 4, all boys, and they are all pretty social, with one of them being extremely social and dog-like. He follows me everywhere, site on the chair with me, licks my hand and face, fetches, etc. He doesn't walk on a leash, but he probably would have had I introduced it to him. The fact that you are getting a boy is a good idea if you want a more social animal. For the most part, male cats are more sociable than females, which is perhaps why your daughter didn't get the kind of interaction she wanted from your female cat. Anyway, I was a dog person all my life until I got my first cat. I have both a dog and 4 cats now and the only thing the cats seem to be "missing" is the neediness that some dogs display. Anyway, the cat will hopefully give your daughter all the love and affection she craves. I think if she puts the energy into developing the relationship, she will be thrilled at the results!
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I didn't mean to "dis" cats. I actually really, really love our little female. I find her feline personality engaging and enjoy her independent streak. When she comes to me, she really WANTS to be there. They are intriguing and enigmatic creatures. I've never had a cat before, but I'd never be without one now.

However, you're dead on about the cat vs dog thing: what my daughter really misses is the sense of being needed. I do think the male kitty at the shelter would be a good fit for her. He craves attention and she'd like to shower him with it. Fingers crossed.

Acknowledging/recognizing legitimate special (i.e. of, or relating to, a species) differences is not "dis"sing.

Alexicat,

I was careful to use the terms "by nature" and "as a rule", and to acknowledge there are exceptions. I've had both cats & dogs (as well as several exotics), and can acknowledge and appreciate the differences.

If there's disagreement, it's not with anyone here. From 2 cat websites:
I think that last statement illustrates/sums it up best.

Doc