How redirection works better when a cat scratches the sofa

Scratching is part of normal cat behavior. The real task is not to erase it, but to move it to a better place.

What makes redirection easier

It usually works better when:

• the scratching option is stable and easy to reach
• it is placed close to the problem area at first
• the surface actually suits the cat

If the alternative is unattractive, the sofa keeps winning.

What often goes wrong

Redirection fails when:

• the scratching post is too far away
• it does not match the preferred surface
• the cat only gets correction and no useful option

That does not solve the need behind the behavior.

The better goal

Do not think only in terms of stopping. Think in terms of making the right place more logical than the wrong one.