This surprised me. The picture is a bit deceiving - although I knew it was an animal print and not a real cowhide, I expected a different texture. The rug isn't imitation hide or hair or faux fur - it's more like a woven, upholstery texture. I use it in my loft under my bed and it feels comfy and soft on my feet, which is all I need it for. I don't think I'd recommend putting it in a main room unless it was part of a very specific design scheme since the silver spots and texture give it a bit of an overly playful look.