What kind of cats are you fighting? ive only fought one cat and it was some saber cat on my way to morthal for the first time. Popped out the double hand fire bolts and POW POW i killed it. Im playing a spell mage atm.
ADVICE: I would recommend joining the companions for some special abilities* Lets just say you'll be howling when the moons out*. And also some good weps. For instance when i was around 10 i used to companions skyforge steel sword which is really powerful. Especially due to the fact that i improved it to the stated of legendary myself causing it to do 31 damage.
Only need one soul per shout I'm currently level 26 and rocking around with full ebony armour excluding the helmet which ive replaced for Morekei. It's working out pretty well and ive almost reached 70 one hand. Does anyone now how far i am in the main quest line? Ive just started the quest auldins wall.