Hi all

I got two lovely rescue cats in February (both neutered males). One is very small and timid and quite frankly a bit backward but has really come out of himself (Yimao - or Eeesie Peasy) and is started to wander around our garden. The other (Ermao - or Errsie Purrsie) is bigger, loves going out to hunt mice and rats in the farm at the back and uses the cat flap.

Big problem is that there are 2 (perhaps 3) cats two doors up and they keep bullying Errsie...he has been to the vets 3 times as a result of cat bites. He started to go out at night to hunt, but now the farmer has moved cattle in he doesn't like to do that. So he is going out in the day again - I come home to work to keep an eye on things now, but the neighbours cats keep coming in our garden and attacking - they run when they see me but our garden is large, is on 3 sides and has hedging and all sorts - it would be practically impossible to 'cat proof' - also I don't think Erssie would like not being able to go to the farm. I have chucked water at these cats, we have water guns that fire 30feet so we can get them down the garden.. and we've chased them when I see them but they are clever! It is driving me insane with worry, I worry all the time and my cat does get miserable (and ill). They have also pounced on my other cat who is so backward he doesn't spray or pose a threat to anything he is so small.

They have both settled in so well, and are affectionate and wonderful in all aspects (even the mice and rats at night!). I worry that I can't provide a safe home for Erssie but I couldn't give him up - what can I do? They seem to be neutered males too but obviously better at fighting.

Thanks for any advice