introducing two adult cats!

Question
Hello Kalla, how are you??
I recently moved to a knew place with my husband and our seweet little Kali,
a one year old female cat. In the garden of the new place there is an old
female cat who was abandoned by the past tenant something like 4years ago.
Until now (5 days) we've kept Kali indoors and the other cat(Mini) in the
garden. I cleaned the space where Mini sleeps and I'm going out regularly to
caress her, she likes to be caress but atacked me once. They already saw each
other several times through the window but were not "properly" introduced
yet.
What do you sugest me?
*I'm not sure I am open to let Mini inside the house...but surely want to let
Kali enjoy the garden!Anyway I'm open to let her in if this is the best way to
let them like each other.

Kind regards
Camila

Answer
Hi Camila!

Congrats on the new place (and the new cat ;))

I would suggest that it might be best to introduce them inside, where you can keep an eye on their interactions. The best way to introduce them would be to slowly get them used to each others scent- try rubbing a towel on Kali, then rub the same towel on Mini, then rub it back on Kali- this way they'll get used to each other that way. Then slowly try same room introduction, use treats and praise for good behaviour, separate them (but don't scold or punish for bad behaviour- they're just doing what comes naturally for them) With positive re-enforcement they'll learn to get along.

Mini is probably more of a survivalist, given her situation, which would explain why she attacked you- just be gentle and patient with her. You could also try some "Rescue Remedy"(which you can find at your pharmacy or health food store, it is a human product but safe for cats) and put a couple of drops in their water before introductions, just to calm the situation down.

Good luck! :)