First of all, it is all about risk assessment as to whether you let your cats have free roam or not.

I can quite understand how it might be difficult with children about especially if they are outside type kids.

That said, how old about is Sophie? I know you don't know for sure, but would she have past that maniac stage people say kittens go through?

Can you pinpoint any behaviour from you, your children, things going on in the house, your partner, other cats that might set off an 'attack'?


Is it worth ringing up your local Cat protection League and asking for their opinion?

Is the cat out and out agressive or is it a defensive position? See here:

CAT COMMUNICATION

This article gives face and body posture artwork about halfway down for aggressive/defensive.

You might be right - she may be better off as a lone cat, hence second opinion from CPL (maybe).