I think it is wonderful to read how much you all care about your animals, like me to the point of completely freaking out. I had a terrible year pet-wise, my oldest dog lost both his eyes to glaucoma, second had cancer in her uterus, third is still struggling with severe allergies. I had to ask my dad to help out with my old horse so I wouldn't have to sell him, and I'm so glad he would, because who wants a 25-year old horse with arythmia? I mock all the stables and care for his 7 ponies to try and make up for it.

Even though I am low income, I have been saving up. Putting 20 to 50 aside each month. Sometimes I had to dig into those funds to eat, but mostly the amount grew slowly. So when they got sick, I was prepared and could focus on them instead of the money. The other big thing is prevention. Some use vitamin C to protect the urin tract. I use flax seed oil for skin and cognitive functions. Talk to your vet or look online for more, search for the ailments you worry about most, or that occur a lot. I also stumbled upon a vet, who mostly treats farm animals, a young guy who started his own practice so he doesn't have all the expensive equipment yet. That translates to low bills. When things get serious he'll redirect me to a specialist.

And don't forget to learn from your pets ability to just live for today! I don't think your cat worries about him getting sick and you being able to pay the bills. He's just happy you took good care of him today, to cuddle up on your lap this cold night, to wake up and know you're there and trying your best.