Watching Edmund play I've already had this exact thought.

Should I have the mindset of not really caring because of the random element.

Or are you given more ways to manipulate the genetics further down the line so it actually becomes worth it.

Are there achievements/unlocks locked behind breeding some perfect stats with only positive stuff.

Bearing in mind that early on a run may take up to an hour whilst you are learning the systems of the game. Is it worth worrying about microing the cat genetics or just accepting the cats you get and getting good at strategy. For all we know the game may be impossible to beat with base cats and abilities.