Bonding? Or about to have it out?

Samuel has had a very hard time adjusting to life in my parents house, partially because its so big and partially because my dad's cat, Chloe, doesn't like him.

In the past couple of days, I will find the two of them in some sort of tense standoff, usually about 3 feet apart. They are lying down, but locked in a staring contest until someone makes a scary noise and the other runs away.

I'm wondering if this is part of the bonding process, or if they are on the verge of having a serious catfight. I've read the info about introducing cats to each other, and to be honest I haven't followed it closely because the house is big enough for them to avoid each other. Not to mention I'd hate to lock Sam up, as he is upset enough already by the move.

sorry this is so long.

Personally, I would have separated them at first. For one thing, it would have given Sam a room that was his own. And it would give them a chance to get used to each others scent.

However, the silent standoff sounds like progress to me. I'm incorporating a foster kitty, and mine are still at the stare and growl and hiss stage. Today, Festus even growled at Jasmine (who is young), and chased her away from the foster kitty's bedroom door!