I appreciate your effort in creating a match-3 game with new, original elements. I think the most important distinguishing feature is the cat's movement. Unfortunately, this feature will become meaningless if the game is changed.
Let me explain. It's better for the player to be able to play on the entire board. This means the cat can automatically pave the way to the finish line at the end.
Honestly, I don't think players will enjoy this kind of strategic match-3 game. All these rules, with only sleeping cats active, greatly limit the gameplay. I'd even say it kills all the fun.
Holding the movement button resulted in distorted sound.
The board with the tiles and the cat are cute. I recommend redoing the rest of the graphics. Also, note the cat's tail.
The button next to the text overlaps the text. The text doesn't fit on the panel.
I hope you can make an interactive tutorial for the full version.