There are lots of pieces to put together, but by myself I had it up and in use within 45 minutes. Granted I took pics as it came together and the cats were helping by checking out all the pieces! I have three adult rescue cats about 16lbs each. It wobbles when the one who likes heights is on top, but it is only a bit of wobble nothing that will tip the unit over. None of my cats like the hanging basket or hammock, but I did purchase a replacement part direct. I took off the high hanging basket and got a second round flat pad (like on the top). This slight change has made a world of different for my cats! Two of my cats were found fully de-clawed so they need the staggered platforms to climb to the top. I would recommend this cat tree for any multi-cat home. Both wayfair and this manufacturer were prompt with order processing and shipping!