If you're really not comfortable with the nose flick, then I would keep the water bottle in hand when he's on your lap then. I don't mind a quick swat for whoever in the house needs it. Of course I usually hit everyone where it hurts. My son loses his monster trucks when he's in trouble, and my daughter gets isolated. It's whatever they hate most at the time. Now for the hubby there's all sorts of torturing options available. And the animals don't try most of their stuff with me, since I'm a big meanie. The water bottle works great with my cats, and I'll crate the dogs when they are having issues. You just gotta figure out what works for you.