Far better than a water pistol....a wsed washing up liquid bottle. Fill with plain water and have a bit of target practice, you should mannage two possibly three powerfull long range squirts. A couple of direct hits (especialy if they are running away from you )should see off most cats. Is this unfair to cats? I would far rather have no cats and be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of birds in and arround my garden. cheers.