I forever went without a scratching post in my house, as they are so expensive, but after finding a great deal on E-bay, wonder why I waited so long, as the cats love it! You can find some great ones on E-bay, most you just have to pay for shipping! I won mine for 99 cents,a nd just paid to ship it here. I couldnt resist such a deal, as the one I have retails for about 180-230$!!