Sorry... I didnt even realize the post was off-topic and about cats... Sorry to hear about the way you came to have the cat.
Ahh bummer that the aquaclear leaks!
And... well, here is my opinion on fluval...
LOL. Anyways, fluval G-series cannister filters were a flunk IMO (and in my other's opinions)... the proprietary filter cartrige replacement needs are a pain in the butt, also fluvals tend to clog with gunk fairly easily (I have done maintenance on a lot of tanks with fluvals). Aquclear is so easy to clean and you can put any media you want in it... and they rip waterflow really well. Just my opinion... but I think you will have an easier time (and easier effect on your wallet) dealing with aquclear than fluval. (Fluval has made 1 great product... the FX5... lots of other big-time products have been a fail).
Just my 2 cents.
Cheers,
Chris
PS. Your sump may be repairable... i've built some tanks... maybe I can help you fix it? PM Me a pic... I live not to far away from wetaskiwin.