Rita Reimers

Cat Behaviorist

Rita Reimers is a Cat Behavior Expert and a Co-Founder of Cat Behavior Alliance, a cat behavior consulting service. With over 30 years of experience as a multi-cat owner and cat rescue worker, Rita specializes in helping people better understand cats and find solutions to behavior issues. She received a BS in Computer Science and Personnel Relations Management and studied at the Animal Behavior College. Rita co-hosts a radio show on Pet Life Radio, “19 Cats and Counting,” and co-hosts a YouTube series, “Let’s Talk Cats.” She is also the co-author of the cat behavior blog, “Kitty Korner” for Litter Genie. Rita also writes for “A New Cattitude” for Catster Magazine, and is a contributor to be.Chewy.com. She is a supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behaviorists (IAABC).

wikiHow's Editorial ProcesswikiHow partners with over 1000+ experts from a wide range of fields to ensure our content is accurate and based on well-established research and testimony. Content Managers conduct interviews and work closely with each expert to review information, answer reader questions, and add credible advice. Learn more about our editorial process and why millions of readers trust wikiHow.

Forum Comments (1)

Why does my cat like to lick then bite me out of nowhere?
If you’ve ruled out potential medical issues, the odds are high your cat just never learned not to bite. Cats are supposed to learn not to bite when they’re kittens, but if your cat grew up without their littermates or they were a stray, they may have never had that learning experience. It’s possible you may just have a kitty who needs extra time to learn that toys are for biting and hands are for petting. Be patient and try to reward your cat when they behave well.

Co-authored Articles (19)

How to Build a DIY Insulated Cat House: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keep your feline friends warm and fed with this easy & cheap projectAs adaptable and self-sufficient as they are, even cats get cold in the wintertime. If you notice any strays in your neighborhood that don't look like t...

What Color Cat Would I Be Quiz

So, you love cats, but have you ever thought about what type of cat you would be? Take this quiz to find out what color cat you would be! We promise it’ll be purr-fect. link=|alt=A group of cute kittens of all diffe...

Are My Cats Playing or Fighting? How to Know the Difference

Plus, how to recognize and break up a catfightPlay aggression or mock fighting is a normal part of cat behavior. However, it can be hard to tell at times if your cats are playing or fighting—and one can switch to the o...

175+ Top Names for White Cats (Male & Female)

Plus, tips for choosing the perfect name for your feline friendLooking for a cute name for your new white cat or kitten? We’ve got you covered! In this article, we’re providing the ultimate list of names for white ca...

How to

Build a Cat House

A small, warm house can save a feral cat's life in winter. These are easy to construct from a plastic storage container, or from scrap lumber if you have a little carpentry experience. The indoor version is even easier a...

How to Stop My Male Cat from Mounting Me

Your cat is your cuddly best friend—but when he mounts you or tries to hump you, it’s hard to feel warm and fuzzy about him. We all know that neutering your cat is the best way to stop him from humping, but what do y...

How to

Stop an Older Cat from Attacking a Kitten

Getting a new kitten can be an exciting part of your life, but a cat you already own may not warm up to it as quickly. It’s normal for cats to act territorial at first, but the fighting can sometimes get out of hand. ...

How to

Make Cat Kibble

Making your own cat food is a great way to control exactly what nutrients your cat is getting on a daily basis. Plus, homemade food is often easier for your cat to digest. Try making dry kibble, which you can store for u...

11 Cats That Resemble Leopards, Cheetahs & Other Wild Kitties

A complete list of wild-looking house kitties, from Bengals to SomalisWith their wild spots and rosetta-patterned coats, it’s hard to believe that some cats don’t belong on the cover of National Geographic. Surprisin...

How to

Build a Cat Condo

Cat condos are different from cat trees in that they contain more cubbies for the cat to hide in. They are great for houses with children or dogs because they will give the cat a place to hide in. This article will show ...

16 Ways Cats Imprint on People They Love (Plus What They're Feeling)

Learn how to forge a strong bond with your beloved catThe relationship between humans and their cats is complicated, to say the least! Felines are fickle creatures. They will purr and lavish you with licks one moment and...

How to

Fix Clinginess in Cats

Do you have a cat or kitten that sticks by your side when you’re home? Even though cats have a reputation for being independent, your cat may act clingy and needy if it wants your attention. While it’s definitely cut...

How to

Set Up Cat Shelves

Cat shelves are a type of cat furniture that provides cats with vertical space. Cats love climbing and getting high above everyone in the room, and cat shelves are a convenient way to let your cat climb and sleep on a hi...

How to

Make Catnip Spray

Catnip: Its strange ability to make otherwise placid cats go nuts has made it a source of fascination for centuries. This minty herb, related to basil and oregano, causes a "high"-like euphoria in house cats and their wi...

How to

Calm Your Cat with Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy involves the use of particular scents derived from plant sources to treat a wide range of conditions. If your cat is anxious because of an upset stomach or a long car ride, you might find aromatherapy very h...

18 of the Most Expensive Cat Breeds in the World (& What They Cost)

Plus, what these expensive kitties are really likeFrom the Maine Coon to the Munchkin, cats are one of the most popular pets in the world. While every cat is unique and adorable in their own way, it’s true that some br...

How to

Make a Cone Hat for a Cat

A hat can be a fun toy for your cat. If it's your cat's birthday, or if you want to give him a Halloween costume, you can make a simple cone-shaped hat for your cat to wear with some paper, glue, and scissors. You can de...

How to

Care for a Siberian Cat

Siberian cats tend to be loyal and energetic. Give them plenty of stimulation, and don't forget to care for that thick, luxurious fur. As with any pet, a visit to the veterinarian is a great chance to ask further questio...

How to Build the Perfect DIY Catio

Give your feline friend outdoor enrichment with this play spaceA catio, or cat patio, is an enclosure that attaches to the side of your home and allows your cats to enjoy the outside safely. A catio that sticks out from ...