New cat tree--overwhelming smell (carpet, smelling, bathroom, odor)

[kibblesandbits]

We just got a new cat tree--it is the kind with carpet on it (as most of them have). However, it came out of the box smelling overwhelmingly like carpet. The fumes are bowling me over. We set the individual pieces (it came unassembled) outside to air out for a day--it didn't help. We then put all the pieces in a small bathroom and shut the door so that they could offgas--the fumes coming out under the door are overwhelming. The smell is the same smell as you would get with new carpet. I am very sensitive to this, and can't be in the same room with new carpet without having my eyes start watering, etc.

Anyone else ever encounter this? It's been a few days and the pieces still smell very strong. I don't want my cats on this because they might get sick from the fumes too. Should I return it?

[maincoon]

I had the same experience once with a cat tree. They use glue when assembling some parts and the tree had a strong odor. Like you, I put the tree out for a day or two but that didn't do much. It took a week or so for the smell to become bearable. It disappeared completely eventually though. As long as you put the tree in a ventilated room, your cats should be fine.

[Woof Woof Woof!]

Sounds like you need to put the tree out for a week or so.

[HsvMike]

I just got my cat tree delivered today and didn't have any problem with the smell. But I'd say leave it out a few more days and if that still doesn't work, then return it.