Re your questions: I am no 'expert', but certainly if you are trying to get the fur more defined / sharper, I would suggest a tripod, coupled with good lighting - natural or 'other'. I suggest asking in the Forums for some expert advice on the technicals, or else researching via the net or books if you are wanting to learn how to develop your technical skills. Also, obviously the cat completely still always helps, but they don't always cooperate. 'Setting the mood', may also help you in that regard.
4 - Don't get the title, unless it is something to do with the Christmas tree. Colors/saturation look a little odd, difficult fur to capture I imagine - could be some slight blur though, not sure. More refined crop would have helped this in my opinion. Because the collar is not fully visible, it is slightly distracting.
Gorgeous kitty - lookit those eyes! A sense of strong independence really jumps out in this photo. The lighting is just right to catch all the dark details. Very nice!