Soooooo happy with this product!
I love, love, LOVE this scratching post. I've spent a lot of time (and money) trying to find a post big enough, tall enough and stable enough to accommodate my two big cats (6 year old Hobbes who's 5.5kg and 10 month old Bear who's 4.5kg)
Until the barrel came into our house, Hobbes had reverted back to scratching the carpet as he had outgrown my Ancol "Fat Boy" post (still very much in use by Bear and also a great product). Now he can literally hang from the barrel, with all four paws clinging on, without it tipping over. He loves sleeping on the top bed.
The barrel is very well made, with comfortable platforms to lie on and a cosy but spacious "cave" to hide in. The toys in all 3 openings are enticing and, as of yet, have withstood the vigorous attention from Bear. The scratching surface, which goes all the way up and around the barrel, is durable and good quality. It's easy to rub cat nip into it to encourage interest when it first arrives.
I can't say anything negative about the barrel, I wish I had more space as I'd love to get another, especially as it's great value for money!