Review on ASENKU Cat Natural Sisal Rope: Premium Replacement for Cat Scratching Posts, Hemp 🐱 Rope for Repair and DIY Scratcher - Perfect Flexible Scratching Pad and Toy for Cats by Sherry Esco

I confess when I see a review from someone that says "it smells" I sometimes think that they are overly sensitive or maybe even a little irrational, and that's something that doesn't matter and/or may improve over time. So when I got this a week ago and it smelled like auto repair shop (i.e. motor oil with maybe a hint of gasoline) I figured I could certainly fix it. I initially left it outside for 5 days to air it but there was no improvement. Then I had the brilliant idea of trying to wash it with old towels, which in retrospect I realize was a horrible idea. I think I was hoping it was NOT actually motor oil but a washable smell but no. Engine oil. And I've washed this linen 3 times already and the smell hasn't gone away at all and I think I won't be able to keep these old towels in my linen closet anymore, they need to be sent to the barn or thrown away some way. . I asked my husband if he would like some rope for another use in his workshop but he said it was "too smelly to keep in the garage". Unfortunately, for the health and safety of all cats, I cannot recommend this product. My two cats are now 15 and doing great (Knock Wood) and I'm doing everything in my power to keep it that way. I was going to use this on the big scratching post in the photo behind which is also 15 years old and the posts could use the new scratching pads but I don't like the idea of them rubbing their paws on it (and then LICKING). her paws). The description states that it is a natural product made without chemicals or oils. Maybe I was confused and somehow got a product from a different batch that is mostly chemicals and oils. I really don't know, but unfortunately I can't use the rope I received.