I've recently inherited a wood shop & want to make use of it.

The first project I'd like to make is a miniature cat bed. (1' tall x 17" long x 17" wide). I'll sew up a little padded mattress to top it off.

I've made a plan (sketchup design attached). I've lined it up against some of the wood (also pictured) I inherited to plan the most efficient cuts.

And now I'm wondering: 1. Is the wood I plan on using going to work? I've never seen anything like it- it seems like a butcherblock, but the pieces are zig zagged together at the long ends. I'm worried if I cut it, then it'll just fall apart. I'd like to know what to call it for starters & how to best use it if this application won't work. The cat bed will hold up to 15 lbs max. My biggest concern is it getting damaged when a toe gets stubbed on it...

1. What is the best tool to cut the wood as planned? I have a band saw, table saw, circular saw & jig saw. It's ~1/2" thick, 4 ft tall & ~11" wide. (I feel MOST comfortable with the idea of using the Band saw, top horizontal ones cut first, then the vertical 2 shorter ones, then the rest)

2. If you're feeling generous: I'm planning on using dowels or pocket joints to put it all together. If you have a better suggestions for joinery, I'd appreciate it!

Thank you, in advance, for any help you can offer to a beginner with WAY too much confidence but no practical experience!