Cairns Cat Woman's Remarkable Journey: Over 5000 Kittens Fostered
In the tropical city of Cairns, resident Diane Sloman has become a local legend through her extraordinary dedication to animal welfare. Over the past 13 years, Sloman has fostered more than 5000 kittens, transforming her home into a sanctuary for vulnerable felines. Her journey began modestly with the adoption of a single kitten, but quickly evolved into a full-time commitment that has reshaped her life.
The Financial Burden of Compassion
Despite her remarkable achievements, Sloman faces significant financial challenges. Her veterinary bills regularly reach $12,000 monthly, a staggering amount that would overwhelm most individuals. "We rely on many donations to keep going," Sloman explains, highlighting the constant financial pressure that accompanies her compassionate work.
The local Bunnings Warehouse has become an essential partner in her mission, allowing her to host monthly fundraising barbecues that typically raise about $2500. "We've been regularly doing Bunnings barbecues for five or six years now," Sloman notes. "The support from Bunnings has been great, allowing us to do the monthly barbecues. Being able to pay that vet bill is pretty important."
A 24/7 Commitment to Vulnerable Animals
Sloman's dedication extends beyond normal working hours, as she remains on call around the clock to assist stray kittens and support other foster carers during emergencies. "I've fostered a couple of puppies over the years, but honestly, they are hard work," she says. "Cats are easier, they just go and do their own thing."
Her commitment has earned her recognition as a Bunnings Warehouse Community Legend nominee, celebrating her exceptional contribution to the Cairns community. What began as a plan to care for 20 cats annually has expanded dramatically, with Sloman now taking in approximately 40 kittens every month.
The Emotional Toll and Rewards
The work takes both physical and emotional energy, particularly as Sloman grows older. "Getting up at 2am to feed the kittens is not so easy when you're getting older," she admits. The challenges include caring for kittens weighing as little as 100 grams and coping with inevitable losses. "It's hard, because you do lose a few," she acknowledges with the wisdom of experience.
Despite these difficulties, Sloman finds profound satisfaction in her work. Her story represents one of two remarkable Australian sacrifices featured in the Back Australia series, which highlights extraordinary community contributions across the nation.
Community Support and Expansion
Beyond the monthly barbecues, Bunnings has expanded its support to include Christmas and Easter markets where Sloman's organization operates craft stalls throughout the year. This additional fundraising helps bridge the gap between donations and the substantial veterinary expenses.
Sloman's journey demonstrates how individual compassion, when supported by community partnerships, can create lasting impact. Her 5000th kitten intake milestone, reached just a month ago, marks not an endpoint but another chapter in her ongoing mission to provide love and care for vulnerable animals in Far North Queensland.
