Our kitty is still getting used to you, but it definitely makes her feel safer.  She loves being up high. I want her to get used to having her food up there too. That way the dog won't get into her food!! It didn't take long to put together. Our cat is about 10 to 12 lbs and she fits on the different levels.  I am not sure how she is supposed to get from the lower level to the middle or upper levels, but she jumps to the middle and upper levels from a nearby chair.