My beloved kitten what would others have done

I do hope your little kitty pulls through. Vets do charge a lot, and it's something we have to allow for when we acquire pets. Good luck to you.

I would have done the same Ethelbags1. She is lucky to have you.

Pet insurance is really needed as costs are prohibitive as you’ve found out. Be aware though the insurer will not insure you for the same problem now the kitten has had it. I echo changing your credit card for a new no interest balance you can then pay it off slowly as long as you pay more than the minimum payment every month . I have a cat that I adore I would have done the same

I’m so sorry for your difficulty and hope that the little cat survives.
I have pet insurance that cost £15 a month, worth while for peace of mind. I live in NZ but it must surely be available in the UK. I know this sounds unkind but we probably shouldn’t have a pet if we won’t be able to afford vet care.

I have 3 cats and 3 kittens and I would have done exactly the same as you. I love my kitties so much. I have just paid for 3 to be spaid and 3 vacinations and 3 go back for second vaccination and microchippibg. I have spent about £700 over three weeks. I hope your little kitty gets well soon and continues to bring you love and joy. What is it called?

You have a big heart, please post photo of the baby.

Others, may well have put him to sleep. If he comes through this, that will be your reward.

Look for a credit card that gives zero interest for transfter balance say on “compare the market” if you are able to access one of these, it may help your sleepless nights are you know no interest is being added.

etheltbags1, you said:

'I realise most people will have several hundreds in the bank for emergencies'

I don't think that's necessarily true. A lot of people live almost 'hand to mouth' and rely on credit cards or overdrafts for unexpected expenses. You ask what we would have done. Pretty much the same. Some would arrange vet insurance for a new pet, others would take a chance and hope they never need it. I wonder where the kitten came from. Breeders often include initial insurance cover.

etheltbags, I know it's a lot of money that you obviously can't afford but hopefully you will have you're lovely little kitten for many years of happiness and that will be your reward.
I'm wishing you all the best for yours and your kittens health and for your future financial stability.

etheltbags1 you have a big heart which is not as practically important as having money set aside but surely more so in the big picture. Hopefully, you can gradually rebuild your emergency savings in the new year. Sending you hugs.

Oh how sorry I feel for you Ethelbags
My little cat is about 17 months old , I have had her for 14 months and she is the world to me.
I could afford vets bills at the moment but who knows what happens.
Last year my D’s adopted cat was ill and the bill was £900 , she couldn’t afford that and knowing how she and my GC felt, I paid but couldn’t do it again.
I hope your little kitten gets well, perhaps you should look at som form of insurance for him.