Rats have a heightened sense of smell, so many scents that seem mild to humans can be potent to them. There are several smells that rats dislike, including:

• Peppermint oil: Rats find the smell of peppermint oil repulsive, and it can be used as a natural rat repellent.

• Garlic: The strong smell of garlic can be used to deter rats.

• Citronella: Rats generally hate citronella, which is often used to control mosquitoes and certain insects.

• Ammonia: Rats dislike the pungent smell of ammonia, which is too strong for their respiratory system to handle.

• Clove oil: Rats dislike the strong smell of clove oil.

• Lemon or orange essential oil: Rats dislike any strong citrus smells and tastes, including the refreshing smell of lemons, grapefruit, and oranges in an essential oil form.

• Sage: Rats hate sage, which is a perennial herb.

Its important to note that while these smells can be used in areas around the home where rats are likely to nest, they should be accompanied by more effective preventive measures, such as keeping the house clean, sealing gaps in the walls, storing food in sealed containers, and trapping rats where they are seen. Additionally, rats are adaptable creatures that can easily get used to the smell, so its important to use a combination of methods for rat control.