You have probably several things going on here. Mother cats often become cranky toward their offspring as the kittens mature, possibly in an effort to explain to babies that the milk bar is permanently closed. Second, Yodda has been away from her so long that he no longer smells familiar. Cats share scent through mutual grooming and other close contact, and anything “strange” translates as potentially “scary or dangerous.” Also, the indoor environment offers less space to get away from this potential risk.
It can take weeks or even months for cats to accept one another. Keeping the two separated when Cali comes inside is a good plan. A cat facial pheromone diffuser used in an area inside the house that Cali frequents may also help take the edge off of territorial angst, since this signals to cats that the environment is safe.
You can also help the two cats smell more alike by rubbing them both with the same hand towel. When they’re both inside, you might also feed Cali near the door of Yodda’s confinement space to help her associate his presence with good things.
Please take care to keep your distance from Cali when she’s aroused at the presence or sight of Yodda. Displacement aggression can happen when a cat gets upset over something they can’t control (seeing a squirrel or other cat through the window). They can’t reach that other critter, so they lash out at whatever/whoever’s close. It’s no different than when a human being is irked at work and comes home with a short temper that blows up for no reason at some otherwise harmless comment from their spouse.
Source: http://www.catchow.com
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