Hopefully, someone can help me find this book again...
Basically, there is a space battle between a human ship and cat-people (forget what they are called). Both ships have survival pods that crash land on the planet. I believe the humans name is Sergeant Liam Carter(?) and he has to survive on the alien world. He eventually finds some cat-people. Fights with the male versions a bit. Then fights for the female versions. Sex is involved. I think one of the female cat-peoples name was like Tem'matel or something. The human and the female cat people end up banding together to face some kind of water living alien that is infesting both of their worlds..
Basically, I can remember the whole story... just jot the title. I have read it at least 3 times, but would a) like to read it again and b) I'm trying to share it with another.
Thanks for any all help!