This was the second Cat Tree we ordered (first one was purchased about 2 years ago). The free standing ledge --- the one with the white cat sitting on it in the photo, does not stay upright. As soon as my cat puts weight on it, the ledge tilts. The other ledge on this cat tree is supported above and below with posts and it is very secure. The free standing ledge appears to be a design flaw and I wonder why it was even offered for purchase. We ended up buying brackets and securing the bottom of the ladder to the ledge. The packing of the cat tree should have been done with more care. The ladder was packed inside the larger condo in such a way that the brackets dug into the side of the condo causing damage. Also, the quality of the faux fur is poor and it was attached in a sloppy manner in several spots.