It arrived already assembled a pleasant surprise. It is well made and sturdy. My cat is very large (not fat but tall and long), yet still curls up comfortably at the top and naps there. He actually uses the sisal post for scratching, much to my surprise. It's tall enough to give him a good stretch. I placed the lounge in front of a window. It's an ideal height for him to watch birds at the feeders and squirrels collecting dropped seed under the feeders. I would buy this item again if I ever rescue another cat.