We bought this as a distraction & redirection tool for our cat who likes to lay on his side and dig all four sets of claws into our couch and ottoman.  He took to it immediately, wrapping his arms around the carpeted post and kicking the sisal part with his back legs.  He hasn't totally stopped with the couch and ottoman (occasionally does it for attention still), but he uses this scratching post every day and it has certainly slowed down his destruction of our furniture.  Typically he goes after it on his own, but when he needs encouragement, a little catnip spray is all it takes to lure him to it.  Also, we have a large cat tree made by this same company, and the carpet matches perfectly between the two items.  The company is consistent with its colors.