Rue is one plant that deters Cats!
I have a real problem in my front garden. Several neighbours have cats that are allowed to roam freely, and they all seem to like using my front garden as their toilet.
Now I don’t wish the cats or my neighbours any harm, but I really don’t like having to clean up the cat poo! I think even cat lovers don’t enjoy the kitty litter job!
Anyway, it turns out that the herb Rue is a natural deterrent to cats. The leaves have a very pungent citrusy type smell, that apparently cats hate. So, on the weekend I purchased Rue plants and transplanted them in the middle of the garden that the cats favour most!
Rue
A bonus is that the Rue plants also deter many insects, including fleas and mosquitoes. It is also a magnet for butterflies! I can’t believe I haven’t had this wonderful herb in my garden before now!
Other herbs with similar repellent properties include lemon thyme and penny royal. So I will be planting these nearby, and hope that the cats find somewhere else to use as their toilet.
If you have a similar problem with cats pooing in your garden, then why not try one of these natural repellents in your garden! They are easy to grow and not overly fussy in their requirements.
A word of caution:
Rue plants, like all herbs contain essential oils. However, some people can be sensitive to the Rue plant. This can result in nasty skin blisters. So always use gloves when handling Rue plants or weeding around Rue plants.
Happy gardening 🙂
Rohanne, your Personal Gardening Expert
