Rue Plant To Deter Cats. The foliage of this coleus (previously called plectranthus caninus) is said to give off an unpleasant smell when touched and is said to deter cats, as well as dogs, foxes and rabbits. Ruta graveolens, more commonly called rue, is often effective in deterring cats.

And some people make sachets out of rue and use them to deter pests, including fleas and ants. These plants will not harm the cat, instead they have a scent or feel that the cat will not like. The 10 plants that deter cats 1.