What Smells Do Cats Hate? 19 Scents They’ll Avoid

Did you know that cats have up to 200 million olfactory receptors in their noses and a dedicated “scent organ” in the top of their mouth? That’s an ability to smell 14 times stronger and farther than humans. It’s no surprise that cats are known for their first-rate sense of smell.

With the ability to smell up to 4 miles away, cats can also find particular scents overwhelming. Consider a smell you dislike, and imagine it 10 times stronger!

However, knowing which smells cats dislike can be beneficial to cat parents. First, avoid these scents to keep your cat comfortable, and second, use these scents to deter cats from certain areas. Read on to discover which scents are most likely to keep cats away.

19 Scents That Cats Strongly Dislike

While the following smells are ones cats typically dislike, no two cats are alike.

For example, a cat’s aversion might also be rooted in survival, says Dr Rebecca Greenstein, veterinary medical advisor for Rover and chief veterinarian at Kleinburg Veterinary Hospital. An adopted or rescued cat that has had a traumatic experience may avoid these scents or other surprising ones. On the other hand, some cats have an instinct to recognize which scents are harmful when ingested or touched.

Toxicity can differ from cat to cat, based on your cat’s size and own immune system. If your cat doesn’t have an adverse reaction, it does not mean the scent or product is completely safe. It may mean they did not inhale or ingest enough to cause a reaction.

“If you are not sure whether a substance is toxic, it is best to contact your veterinarian or ASPCA Poison Control,” advises Dr. Preston Turano, a veterinarian and spokesperson with Felix Cat Insurance.

Signs Your Cat’s Airways Are Irritated

If you choose to use scents as a deterrent, caution is key. “While some scents may deter them from certain areas, they should never cause harm,” states Nick Horniman, MRCVS, veterinary surgeon and founder of online pet pharmacy MyPetsVet.

Signs to stop using these scents is when you see your cat:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Drooling
• Sneezing
• Watery eyes or nose
• Labored breathing
• Fast breathing
• Vomiting
• Panting
• Lethargic

“Cats are very sensitive to their environment, and excessive use of strong smells can cause them distress, leading to anxiety or a negative association with the space,” Dr. Horniman says. If you also witness feelings of distress or aggressive behaviors, such as hissing or running away, get rid of the scent.

Which Scents Are Toxic?

Essential oils can be harmful if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Cats who love to rub up against items are at higher risk for skin irritation and breathing troubles if you use these scents.

Some of the most toxic essential oils to our feline friends include:

• Sweet birch
• Ylang Ylang
• Peppermint
• Wintergreen
• Cinnamon
• Tea tree
• Eucalyptus

“These products often contain chemicals that are harmful to your cat,” says Dr. Turano. He also warns that “smoke, whether from fire, essential oils, or incense sticks, can be harmful and toxic to your cat.”

You may also notice these symptoms from your cat if you wear perfume. Experts say you shouldn’t rush to spray it on your cat’s bed for a scented touch. Perfumes have the potential to cause secondary skin irritation on top of respiratory symptoms.

Can I Use Smells to Deter My Cat?

“[Scents as deterrents] can be effective if done correctly,” states Dr. Horniman. “Cats often dislike strong, pungent smells, and using these strategically in areas where they tend to misbehave might help.”

For instance:

• An anti-scratch cat spray with diluted rosemary on soft furnishings may prevent scratching.
• Diluted vinegar on kitchen countertops may counter surfing and climbing.
• Diluted citrus scents may help keep your cat from peeing or pooping outside the litter box.

“Always check that any product you use is safe and non-toxic to cats,” adds Dr Horniman. And never spray, rub, or place anything directly onto your feline.

Don’t get too carried away with scents

If your cat starts avoiding a certain area of the home entirely, Dr Horniman suggests testing a smaller amount of a scent first and seeing how your feline reacts. It’s possible you may have gotten overzealous, and a smaller amount may be just as effective.

Other Ways To Manage Your Roaming Cats

If scent-based deterrents aren’t a solution for you, other training options can help prevent unwanted kitty behaviors.

Redirect your cat with a treat

Dr Turano says a good approach involves the art of redirection. If you notice your cat doing something inappropriate, use a cat toy or sound to redirect their attention.

“Using a command like ‘quit’ with a firm voice and a hand clap often gets their attention so you can redirect the behavior,” he adds. To avoid negative associations, use redirection as an opportunity to train your cat to come to you.

Keep their area clean

Providing your cat with alternative options for littering and scratching is also important. Ensure they have access to a clean litter box in a quiet area, along with scratching posts and climbing trees.

“Providing regular exercise and playtime always helps burn off excess energy that can lead to bad behaviors,” notes Dr Turano.

Try making the surface undesirable

A final nifty solution is double-sided sticky tape, says Dr Horniman. Place these on areas you’d like to protect, such as the arms of the couch, as “cats generally dislike the sensation on their paws.”

Whatever approach you opt for, “always use positive reinforcement and never use dominance or physical force,” says Dr Turano. We all want our feline friends to feel comfortable, happy, and safe at home.

At the end of the day, use scents cautiously and in moderation while monitoring their reactions. And remember that there are many other ways to train your cat. If scents aren’t working, learn more about their attention-seeking behaviors. You may find that your cat getting into trouble is their way of saying they want to spend more time with you.