[Plot 1 Problems]

I've read that a citronella spray can deter cats from using the garden as a bathroom. Would it also deter beneficial pollinators?

[New shoot]

Citronella repels all flying insects, bees included, so yes they will avoid areas which are laden with the scent of it.

[Plot 1 Problems]

Thanks, I thought as much. Back to using the Super Soaker to deter the little brutes

[mrs bouquet]

Cats do not like citronella, or lemon scents.  I have bought three lemon scent thyme and that seems to work.
Citronella candles will stop all insects from biting you when you sit in the garden.  So yes they will keep the insects away.   Also when ants come into the house a bit of sliced lemon will deter them.
My favourite and best working cat deterrent is a very cheap curry powder, just a little sprinkle and you won't see those cats.  Mrs Bouquet

[Subversive_plot]

You can also grow citronella plants (a type of geranium).  They are more of a foliage plant than a flower (they can flower of course, but I have never seen one booming).

The plants also deter mosquitoes (cats?? don't know).