This has been a huge hit at my house!  I have a multi-cat home and foster kitties through the local shelter, and this thing seems to draw them all in.  They love tapping and chasing the ball around the loop and use the cardboard scratcher in the middle.  Im glad you can turn over and replace the center scratcher because my cats will wear it out!  It doesnt seem to leave a huge mess like other cardboard scratchers Ive used.  Very happy with both the entertainment value and functionality this offers my kitties.