I have read with much interest your cat problem.
May I suggest tape...cats hate things that stick to their fur.The tape has to be replaced a few times but they usually get the message.
I have 5 cats and they do try everything, but can be trained.
They are not allowed on the kitchen counter, but know when we turn the lights off and go into the other room it is easy to be sneaky. Some sticky tape on the counter is an effective deterrent, It is also somewhat of a chuckle to hear them hit the floor, on the run ,shaking paws, and jumping .
