Well, I'm glad this got posted. Don't be scared Sam, some of us are really forgiving. I can't speak for everyone, but you never really offended me you were just anti-social! =D
And for the animal character things, I don't normally make one from a love of anime or manga. I really don't follow manga, anime I do somewhat, but I don't watch anything with cat people in it XD. I just mostly do it out of wanting to add a certain aspect to my character. Just throwing it out there. Not everyone is obsessed with them through anime thingies. Sometimes it's wider than that.
So, anyway! Don't be scared!