Some advice please

[dancemom]

So we adopted 2 gorgeous cats about 2 months ago. They are house cats as we live in a flat however we have been putting a harness on them and taking them out for half an hour or so each morning just to the back area where they nibble grass, sniff everywhere and generally enjoy themselves.

However the last few days a large grey cat has been appearing at the gate when we are in the back area. The first 2 times My Cat 1 just looked a bit shocked and I took them both in. My Cat 2 hadn't noticed. But today when Big Grey Cat appeared My Cat 1 hissed at him a few times but didn't want to come back in. I let him stay out for a few minutes but I'm worried Big Grey Cat might go for him and My Cat 1 will be at a disadvantage being on a harness. Plus of course I don't want him hurt. Even more worried about My Cat 2 as she's tiny and both of them are scared of even other people when we are outside.

Should I just let My Cats stay out and see how the situation goes? I had never seen Big Grey Cat before last week but now he's there every morning despite what time I take mine out. Should I get a water pistol and spray Big Grey Cat to keep him from coming too close?

Don't mind if he turns out friendly and they have a new pal but don't want a fight and I'm worried if it gets nasty My Cats will regress in confidence and not want to go outside, they have settled in so well since arriving but they are definitely timid things.

There was a pet specialist solicitor on a radio 2 show the other day that said you absolutely shouldn’t squirt a water pistol at bothersome cats as causing distress and fear to an animal wasn’t acceptable.
I’m a cat owner and always thought this would be okay but now I sort of see what he was saying.

Anyhow, have both your cats been neutered? Maybe grey cat is showing an unhealthy interest if not or, as yours are house cats, they are bothering him because they are now on his territory? Have you just tried walking near him and shooing him away?

I'd say this is the grey cats territory, and you'll probably see him on a regular basis, especially as he's now seen you and yours and knows what time to expect you. I wouldn't worry about these encounters, but if you feel better for having a water pistol at the ready, then do so. Most cats go out of their way to avoid trouble. Grey cat is probably just monitoring things. It's his job, doncha know!

Both my cats are neutered yes and I did approach the gate to shoo Big Grey Cat away but he / she stood firm.

I'll order a water pistol to have in case of any situation and hope they can peacefully coexist 🤞🏼