You might try the blue painters tape to mark where you want to quilt. It might have enough contrast and is easy to use and won't stick to much. Outline your blocks or motifs and don't worry how many stitches an inch, just be consistant and do use a hoop. You want it loose enough that a cat would be comfy, think small hollow, and so you can feel the needle. Just rock the needle up and down and away you go.