I think it would be for those that just want to keep the couch or chair
unscratched, and not completely directed at training them away from
furniture. It might also get them used to the carpet texture instead of
apolstry. I think for some people, who just want to whisk them away when
company visits it might be a good product.

Karen

My cat behavioral psychologist (I sound soooo LA) told me to put the scratching
post right next to the new couch. Mimi scratched the old fabric couch but not
the new leather one. I didn't think it was a good idea either but the cat has
never missed. The base of my scratchy tree is under the couch leg for support
so it's touching the side of the couch. I still would be a little afraid of
this new product because the cat will think it's part of the couch. And, when
company comes, I just toss the scratchy tree into the other room. I'm also
getting my kitty used to scratching in the bedroom and office instead so maybe
I won't have to also have one in the living room. If a cat is destroying the
side of a couch and can't seem to be taught to use a separate scratchy tree,
I'd definitely use this product. Otherwise I'd try a separate tree and try to
move it away from the couch.

I can see where that may pose a problem in some cases.  In my own case,
though, I use scratching posts right up against furniture where oopsies
have occurred and they are a nice diversion and have worked so far.  Like
someone else has mentioned, it could be a problem if totally new; new ones
I've placed are sisal.  The old old tall one I use in any real trouble spot
has been well used for years and marked (scratched) by every cat I've ever
had.  Any new one knows this is *the* place to scratch when they find it.