Our last cat tree was assembled by the cat furniture store. Items like this that need assembly by the purchaser are going to be more conservative in design and construction.    I was a bit concerned about the threaded stud screws in the posts running with the grain.  But everything went together well.  Our piece was covered with loose carpet bits and threads.  Vacuuming before shipping would've been a plus.  Parts will need to be checked for tightness as they seat.  Overall we're pleased with our cat tree.