I am a breeder of hairless cats & I go thru cat scratches often with my small colony. I have to say this did last me about 2 years considering that I do have a herd of cats. I also hand steamed it every month or two and it seemed to hold up quite well understanding that my cats weigh from 5 to 12 lbs. This will be my second one of this particular cat tree which I think I paid $240.00 for the first one. Great piece for the money!