Yes, this is pricier than your average cat scratcher. But it is NOT your average cat scratcher. It's a very solid piece. It's actually pretty heavy. This is the second one I've purchased. That's how much I like it. The first one was still in good shape after about two years, actually, but I now have the item smack in my living room, so I wanted a pristine one. I gave the other one to the SPCA. I'm an amateur interior designer, and I am not into having one of those shag carpet cat tree things visible. Or even an obvious cat scratcher. This looks cool, and my cat loves it. Just LOVES It. I think the shape of it is naturally attractive to cats. Like the cat in the photo.

Pros: Attractive (not so obviously a cat item). Cats love it, and it doesn't scream "Cat Lady!"
Cons: None