We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.

Will Cockroaches Eat Catnip?

Updated: Jun 04, 2024
Views: 3,696
Share

Cockroaches will not eat catnip, which is why it can be used as a nontoxic repellent against insects. Iowa State University researchers found that nepetalactone, the chemical in catnip that attracts cats, effectively repels cockroaches. In fact, nepetalactone from catnip was found to repel cockroaches 100 times better than DEET, the common commercial repellent for cockroaches, mosquitoes, and other insects.

Although scientists don't know exactly why cockroaches are repelled by the nepetalactone in catnip, this discovery could have a positive impact on pest control. Nepetalactone could be used to prevent infestations from reoccurring after an extermination, or it could serve as a preventative measure to reduce the need for more toxic chemicals.

More about cockroaches:

  • Cockroaches are social creatures that prefer to eat while in a group, even when they could have a food source all to themselves.
  • The name “cockroach” comes from cucaracha, the Spanish word for “crazy bug” -- a reference to the zigzagging motion the insects make when they run.
  • Because they possess sensory organs known as palpi, cockroaches can taste without actually eating, which can allow them to avoid poisonous chemicals.
Share
Allison Boelcke
By Allison Boelcke
Allison Boelcke, a digital marketing manager and freelance writer, helps businesses create compelling content to connect with their target markets and drive results. With a degree in English, she combines her writing skills with marketing expertise to craft engaging content that gets noticed and leads to website traffic and conversions. Her ability to understand and connect with target audiences makes her a valuable asset to any content creation team.
Discussion Comments
Allison Boelcke
Allison Boelcke
Allison Boelcke, a digital marketing manager and freelance writer, helps businesses create compelling content to connect with their target markets and drive results. With a degree in English, she combines her writing skills with marketing expertise to craft engaging content that gets noticed and leads to website traffic and conversions. Her ability to understand and connect with target audiences makes her a valuable asset to any content creation team.
Share
https://www.allthingsnature.org/will-cockroaches-eat-catnip.htm
Copy this link
All Things Nature, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

All Things Nature, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.