They will really only fight back if they see or have seen the object that is a clear target to attack. They will hide for a length of time that directly parallels their level of anxiety. Don't expect that they'll venture out before they feel safe and secure enough to. You have probably seen for yourself that falling pots clanging against one another will do it, as will the sudden sharp hiss of an unseen snake, or the loud burst of an overinflated balloon. The idea is to make them think they are about to lose one of their nine lives.
Timing is critical.
Providing the scare when the cat is about to or just beginning to engage in the troublesome behavior is essential for eliminating that particular behavior. Photoelectric beams can be utilized in these situations with very good outcomes. They can be rigged up in many settings to emit a loud sharp alarm that will scare cats into not wanted to jump up on counters or mess with houseplants when they trip the beam protecting these areas. Other imaginative schemes can certainly be arranged depending on the set up of your home. Physical barriers and deterrents can be utilized too.