Ok, I know I'm an idiot for this, so flame away after answering the question

While I had the gauge cluster out of the car, I managed to get the needles out of the temp, oil pressure, and fuel gauges. How do these reattach? I know there is a small white plastic rocker arm that mounts under the gauge surface, but what does it mount to? Am I better off just getting another cluster?

 

Get another cluster.

Now...I have to ask.

How/why did you remove the needles in the first place?

 

you wasted the gauges... even if you get them re-assembled (which is doubtful), your accuracy will be way off.

 

How/why did you remove the needles in the first place?

I didn't... however, either my cats or son did. I had the cover off the gauge cluster to install some Corksport gauges and left it open like that while I was at work. I think you can guess what I found when I came home ... I'm guessing the cats since I think it was to high up for my son.

 

You must have very clever cats.
Those needles aren't all that easy to remove even when you're trying.