Have you ever had fish as a "pet"? If so look here please!

[Elgin Clock]

So, I found a little fish bowl the other day when I was going through some stuff in the garage. It's so cute, it's a ceramic cat on it's back and the bowl sits on it's stomach.

ANYWAYS, back to the topic.
Is it OK to keep this on a shelf about a foot from a window?

I've never had fish as a pet, so I don't know a thing about them. I'm planning on getting a goldfish or some other cheapy at the local store, and seeing how it works out.

Is it OK to keep the fish near the window? Will the sun be harmful to it, or will I have to worry more about my cat eying it?

Thanks in advance!