While the smell of pine is often considered the traditional scent of the Christmas tree, there are many other scents that can be used to deter cats from getting too close to the tree. Some popular options include citrus (like oranges or lemons), cinnamon, and peppermint. These scents are thought to be unpleasant for cats and may help keep them away from the tree. Additionally, it can be helpful to provide alternative sources of stimulation for your cat, such as scratching posts, toys, and catnip.