they definitely tried to chew the lower limbs, and this immediately, but we had a spray bottle in hand and were quick to let them know that chewing was a no no. Our wise and Confucius like cat never did try to mess with the tree. Our young and semi-mature cat tried a few times but the spray taught her quickly and she has now has moved on. Our young and rambunctious, delinquent, cat hasn't quite given up as yet, spray or no spray, but has at least recognized to not attempt to rip the tree down while we're in the room.... if we're not in the room, (hiding to see what she'll do), she'll make the attempt... but only VERY cautiously. IOW, she won't pounce on the tree like it's a wounded gazelle.