This.
Ulfric may have his flaws, but in a time of war there likely isn’t a more experienced and capable warlord- the kind of leader the alliance would need its members to be if it were to go toe-to-toe with the Dominion. I have a hard time envisioning him not getting buddy-buddy with Hammerfell if he manages to seize Skyrim.
As much flak as it gets, I think Bethesda did a phenomenal job making this a tough and controversial choice. Both sides have their merits and flaws.
Yup. Cats can get pretty warm. The rumble feature is pretty nifty, but don’t grip too hard or they’ll hurt your fingers.