While you have LOTS of suggestions here, there is one that I haven't seen yet. Cats tend to find the smell of pine (evergreens in general) unpleasant. Not all cats are offended by it, which is why many climb christmas trees and others use pine based litters, but it is something to try. I'm assuming that if the same plant gets knocked over again and again this pot must be on a preferred path to someplace. Have you tried making the destination windowsill, squishy place to sleep, interesting smells, snacks) unattractive? What about moving the pot? As for climbing, cats prefer high places. They do not limit themselves to a horizontal plane like humans and dogs tend to do. The higher the better in most cats' opinions. You might try adding appropriate vantage points in your home so your cat doesn't see the ficus as the best view. Even a couple empty or sparsly decorated shelves might work, as long as kitty has clear access and space to make himself comfortable. You might try planting a patch of catnip for your cat to enjoy as an alternative to playing in your other plants. In my experience, cats can obsess over a pot of catnip, so you might only put it within access at night or when you're out of the house (whenever plant terrorism is most prevalent). Else, be prepared for continual feline attention on the catnip and have more pots growing in reserve. (Your cat may not develop the addictive tendencies mine showed, but it's a risk!) I assume since you said kitty does not dig in either pot, just knocks it over or climbs, that he is not using your plants as a litterbox? If he is pottying there, keep the appropriate litterbox absolutely spotless for a few weeks. Maybe even add another box or two as an enticement. Cats like to keep clean, and the litterbox is no exception. If it's too dirty for their taste they will go elsewhere. It may be that some cats prefer plant pots because we clean up after them as soon as we know it's there! Try placing attractive smells elsewhere. I've had luck in the past with pineapple juice. Just make sure it's something your cat finds wonderful, and that it's placed on something you do not mind your cat rubbing against or clawing. I strongly suggest you do not use the scent of other cats (or any animal), as it may encourage your cat to mark territory by spraying, urinating or defecating. Like someone mentioned earlier, wear your cat out! Lots of playtime, lots of human snuggle time... whatever your cat will agree to engage in. Lexie PS-I'm a fourth year animal behavior student; all of these ideas are adapted from a behavior course I had recently. Here is a link that might be useful: Humane Society of the United States Feline Behavior Modification Suggestions

Yep, that's what they are. There is a cluster of about 10-15 munching on the date palm. Should I leave them be, or spray 'em? They are really going to town, maybe I can just snip off the branch and put it in the vacant lot next door? Hate to kill them, but I will if I have to!! At least they are all in a clump, rather than scattered around the tree. Only one branch affected so far.

This is the first year I noticed them on my snow on the mountain. I sprayed spinosad and it worked, but now they are comming back for round two. I haven't noticed them bothering any other plants. At least the chilli thrips seem to have gone away for now. I live in the St. Pete area.

Well, because it was only on 2 leaves and even so, the infestation was on the tip of both, I just cut the tips of those 2 leaves. Would that hurt the palm enough to kill it, or will it be okay? Was it enough to get rid of the infestation, or will it come back?