Bought this to replace the rug Kitty & I loved for so many years, but this time I didnt want to have to buy a new one after some time. So I tried the Jute Rug. Does not smell like people said it would, the cat absolutely loves it, and I also LOVE IT. I was a bit sketchy about the "massaging" effect people wrote about on different blogs and hoped it would not feel like those super uncomfortable Nike or Adidas "massaging" sandal kids had in school. I hated those. Not the case thank goodness! Only been a short time but I definitely recommend so far. :) Great price as well and no need to look further for a blend of Jute/Chenille.. .This is soft enough for the people in my house and probably yours as well.