A DURBAN North woman, Nikki Inman-Bamber, has been obsessed with cats for as long as she remembers, so much so that she co-heads a non-profit cat rescue organsation, Kitty Care Durban, and started a business, FLOOFLET, making artisan toys and beds for the fury friends.

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Part of the proceeds from the business go to the organisation.

Bamber spoke to Northglen News ahead of International Cat Rescue Day, which took place on March 2, about how her passion for her business and rescuing cats started.

“I’ve loved cats since I was a little girl, but the true passion started when I was struggling to fall pregnant. I just wanted a little something to love, and getting involved with Kitty Care Durban during that time set so many wonderful things in motion. Fostering helped me transition from the corporate world during Covid into a full-time entrepreneur, and I also became a mom during that time,” she said.

The self-taught cat lover has always loved sewing, something her grandmother taught her as a young girl.
While being a mom, running a business and assisting with the organisation, Inman-Bamber still actively fosters and has about 18 kittens at her home right now.

“FLOOFLET was inspired by one of my rescue kittens who loves playing. She is an introverted kitten who loves toys with texture and movement. I nicknamed her Flooflet (floof-lit) which is where I got the name for my business from. I just felt there was a gap in the market for artisans toys and luxury beds that are beautiful, functional and durable,” she added.

During Covid, Inman-Bamber received the opportunity to spend time being creative with her ideas. She also loves to recycle and repurpose things, so that inspired her to make cat items from recycled goods.

“About 70% of what we make is repurposed or recycled. I get items like buckets and fabric samples from local businesses and turn them into toys and beds. Our most popular products are the kicker fish, tunnel beds and feather wands,” she said.

Commenting on International Cat Rescue Day, Inman-Bamber said: “As a true cat lady, I can’t stress enough how important it is to look out for our furry friends. Getting them spayed or neutered keeps them healthy and helps control the stray population. And when it comes to fostering or adopting, it’s not just about saving lives; it’s about adding joy to yours. Trust me, it’s a win-win full of purrs and cuddles.”

Her products are sold mostly through Facebook and Instagram and can be viewed on www.flooflet.co.za. Eco-Spirit Pet Shop and Montclair Vet also stock her products.

To order, visit any of their social media accounts or WhatsApp 071 331 8887.

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