Fire Cat

Red Tabby Maine Coon. I just loooove those cats.

First watercolor realism.. although not first painting in that medium. I added some poster white for the whiskers and highlight on the eyes.

Tell me what you think. I'm a beginner so I'm in need of advices from those who's experienced with watercolor...
Also I got some questions:
1. The watercolor paper have textures that cause a bit of chalky effects like when you use a soft pastel... I don't like it, but is it desired?
2. If i happen to mess up the thickness of the paint, is using tissue paper to remove some pigment's a good idea? Or should I avoid it?
That's all, I think. Thanks in advance.