My client for this project wanted a tree for her cats to climb around and perch on, but she said that all the "off-the-shelf" versions were ugly and uninspired. I created this version from a Russian Olive Tree, which is very strong, has good branching characteristics, and is also an invasive species in Colorado where I was living at the time. I was thus able to get it for free and do a service to a local rancher who wanted to water her fields instead of her unwanted Russian Olive hedge! Win-Win. And the client says: "The cat tree is really a fantastic creation" and "People as me about it all the time."