Garlic applied.

I think the netting is really the most effective prevention against cat attack.

I agree with no the net/mesh will work maybe more so than the garlic?

lets hope the garlic works then.

Oh dear, mission not impossible then for the puss...hoping the garlic deters!

I use a powder to deter cats and dogs and that stops them using the front garden as a toilet. Perhaps that might work for your cat scratching the tree. If not try putting a wooden log there so he can have a scratch.