I have 2 female cats, half a year difference in age, and they have been together for a little over 4 years, since they were little. They were never really affectionate with one another, but would always clean each other, sleep near each other, and play together. A few days ago, something happened between them and they fought worse than I've ever seen - it looked like one was about to kill the other. There was claws, growling, howling and hissing. I believe it was food related, but it was so sudden I can't be sure. I separated them into 2 rooms, set up with their bed, food, water, litter, and some toys. I have been letting them out one at a time in the house. They seem calm, but kind of alert and possibly a little nervous about the whereabouts of the other cat every time one leaves their room.
How do I know when I can let them see each other? They've been separated for 5 days and I can see them getting antsy about being locked up for half a day at a time. I have tried feeding them with only a door in between them - the more aggressive cat seemed ok with it, and the submissive cat had to back up about a foot and then ate her food. Is it time to reintroduce them? Is it too soon? How will I know when I can trust them to not hurt each other? Please help!
How do I know when I can let them see each other? They've been separated for 5 days and I can see them getting antsy about being locked up for half a day at a time. I have tried feeding them with only a door in between them - the more aggressive cat seemed ok with it, and the submissive cat had to back up about a foot and then ate her food. Is it time to reintroduce them? Is it too soon? How will I know when I can trust them to not hurt each other? Please help!
