Cat rescue, privilege, and how your life’s course can change in the most unexpected ways

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Illustration by Martha Pluto

There was one crucial move that saved me, one thing that catapulted me from unemployed with mounting medical debt to a homeowner with steady income, financially stable for the first time in my life. 

Here’s the secret, the thing that changed it all for me: I filmed a video about cooking a miniature Thanksgiving dinner for stray cats. And the video went viral. 

Here’s the secret, the thing that changed it all for me: I filmed a video about cooking a miniature Thanksgiving dinner for stray cats. And the video went viral.

A Miniature Thanksgiving Dinner for Cats Goes Viral

I had been feeding the stray cats outside my house for almost a year when I saw a Cornish game hen in the store and thought how cute it was, how it looked like a miniature turkey. How shocked I would have been to know that that moment would be the start of a whole new career. Does it count as a career? Making cat videos? 

I cooked my miniature turkey in a miniature baking pan. I mashed a single potato and bought a can of pumpkin puree and a pouch of turkey-flavoured gravy for cats. I searched thrift stores until I found miniature plates, white porcelain with gold edges. The meals—a whole tray of them, one for each cat—were garnished with a single green bean each. I had obsessively researched which Thanksgiving foods are safe for cats. And then I placed the plates around the driveway, the fancy dishes on the dirt and gravel, and filmed as all the feral cats came over to sniff them. Francois—a big cat the colour of a toasted marshmallow—was the first to take a lick. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

That was the whole video: preparing miniature meals, making them look fancy, and Francois, with his goofy cross-eyed face, gobbling his down. Making Thanksgiving dinner for stray cats, I captioned it. 

That’s all it took. The video blew up.

The viral Thanksgiving dinner for cats TikTok video that changed Courtney’s life. 

My first month on TikTok I earned over a thousand dollars. That was nearly a paycheck for me, nearly 80 hours of work at my office job. The next month I made over $2000 from cat videos, and that monthly number kept going up. 

My first month on TikTok I earned over a thousand dollars. That was nearly a paycheck for me, nearly 80 hours of work at my office job.

I shared videos about rescuing kittens from dark alleys, about trapping feral cats at trailer parks, about delivering donated cat food to hungry cats. It didn’t escape me that the neighbourhoods I worked in were in the poorer parts of town, that the places where stray cats proliferated were the places with the fewest resources. At the same time my weird internet success had allowed me to catch up on bills, I was witnessing poverty that I had never known. My daily life—my every morning with the cats in my driveway, filming silly videos—started to require a constant reconciling of this. Every day, with every cat I saved and every bill I paid, I was thinking: Do I deserve this? 

*Copyright © 2025 by Courtney Gustafson. Published in the United States by Crown, an imprint of the Crown Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC. 

 

An emergency fund is a savings account specifically set aside to cover unexpected expenses or financial emergencies. This fund acts as a financial safety net, helping you manage unforeseen costs without having to rely on credit cards or high-interest loans. Common uses for an emergency fund include:

• Unforeseen medical expenses
• Major car repairs
• Home appliance repairs or replacements
• Covering living expenses during periods of unemployment

It’s generally recommended to save enough to cover three to six months’ living expenses. This way, you can handle emergencies without significant financial stress. You must be wondering how an emergency fund differs from savings or investments. Let’s have a closer look

How an emergency fund differs from savings or investments

While an emergency fund, savings, and investments all involve setting aside money, they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics:

Emergency Fund

• Purpose: To cover unexpected expenses or financial emergencies.
• Accessibility: Highly liquid, meaning you can access the funds quickly and easily.
• Risk: Very low risk, typically kept in a savings account or money market account.
• Returns: Low interest rates, as the primary goal is safety and liquidity, not growth.

Savings

• Purpose: To save for short-term goals or planned expenses (e.g., a vacation, a new gadget, or a down payment on a car).
• Accessibility: Fairly liquid, though not necessarily as accessible as an emergency fund.
• Risk: Low risk, often kept in savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), or other low-risk accounts.
• Returns: Generally low to moderate interest rates, depending on the type of account.

Investments

• Purpose: To grow wealth over the long term, often for retirement, education, or other long-term goals.
• Accessibility: Less liquid, as investments are typically held longer to maximize growth.
• Risk: Higher risk, as investments can fluctuate in value. This includes stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate, etc.
• Returns: Potentially higher returns, but with greater risk of loss.

In summary, an emergency fund is your financial safety net, savings are for short-term goals, and investments are for long-term wealth growth. Each plays a crucial role in a well-rounded financial plan.

Why an emergency fund is crucial for financial stability

An emergency fund is a crucial component of financial stability, acting as a safety net for unexpected expenses such as medical emergencies, car repairs, or job loss. Unlike regular savings or investments, an emergency fund is highly liquid and low-risk, ensuring you can access the money quickly without financial stress.

This fund helps you avoid high-interest debt, maintain your financial goals, and provides peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared for life’s uncertainties. By covering three to six months’ worth of living expenses, an emergency fund offers the flexibility and security needed to navigate financial challenges confidently.

How Much Should You Save in Your Emergency Fund?

The amount you should save in your emergency fund typically depends on your monthly living expenses. Financial experts generally recommend saving enough to cover three to six months’ worth of expenses. This range provides a buffer to handle unexpected costs like medical emergencies, car repairs, or job loss without financial strain.

To determine your target amount, calculate your essential monthly expenses, including rent or mortgage, utilities, groceries, transportation, and insurance. Multiply this total by the number of months you want to cover. For example, if your monthly expenses are $2,000, you should aim to save between $6,000 and $12,000.

If saving this amount seems daunting, start with a smaller goal, such as $500 or $1,000, and gradually build up your fund over time. The key is to make consistent contributions and adjust your savings strategy as needed.

Would you like tips on how to start building your emergency fund?

Steps to Build Your Emergency Fund

Building an emergency fund is a smart financial move. Here are some steps to help you get started:

1. Set a Goal

Determine how much you need to save. Aim for three to six months’ worth of living expenses. Calculate your essential monthly costs (rent, utilities, groceries, etc.) and multiply by the number of months you want to cover.

2. Create a Budget

Review your income and expenses to identify areas where you can cut back. Allocate a portion of your monthly income specifically for your emergency fund.

3. Open a Separate Account

Keep your emergency fund in a separate, easily accessible savings account. This helps you avoid the temptation to dip into it for non-emergencies.

4. Automate Your Savings

Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your emergency fund. This ensures consistent contributions without having to think about it.

5. Start Small and Build Gradually

If saving a large amount seems overwhelming, start with a smaller goal, like $500 or $1,000. Gradually increase your savings over time.

6. Cut Unnecessary Expenses

Look for ways to reduce discretionary spending. This could include dining out less, canceling unused subscriptions, or finding cheaper alternatives for certain expenses.

7. Boost Your Income

Consider side gigs or freelance work to increase your income. Use any extra earnings to bolster your emergency fund.

8. Review and Adjust

Regularly review your progress and adjust your savings plan as needed. Life circumstances change, so ensure your emergency fund remains adequate.

By following these steps, you’ll build a robust emergency fund that provides financial security and peace of mind. 

Practical strategies for saving consistently

To save consistently, automate your savings by setting up automatic transfers from your checking to your savings account, ensuring you “pay yourself first.” Create a detailed budget to track and manage your expenses, cutting unnecessary costs and redirecting those funds to savings.

Set clear, motivating goals and use savings apps to help manage and boost your savings. Additionally, consider increasing your income through side jobs or freelancing, and regularly review and adjust your savings plan to stay on track. Celebrating small milestones can also keep you motivated and committed to your financial goals.

Setting up automatic transfers

Setting up automatic transfers is a simple and effective way to ensure you save consistently. Start by logging into your online banking account and navigating to the transfers section.

Choose the accounts you want to transfer from and to, set the amount you want to save, and select the frequency (e.g., weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly). Confirm the details, and your bank will automatically move the specified amount to your savings account on the chosen schedule.

This “set it and forget it” approach helps you build your savings effortlessly and ensures you prioritize saving without having to think about it each time.

Finding room in your budget to allocate savings

To find room in your budget for savings, start by tracking all your income and expenses to get a clear picture of your financial situation. Identify non-essential expenses, such as dining out, subscriptions, or impulse purchases, and look for areas where you can cut back.

Prioritize your spending by focusing on necessities and redirecting the money saved from reduced discretionary spending into your savings. Additionally, consider negotiating bills, such as insurance or utilities, to lower costs.

By making these adjustments, you can free up funds to allocate towards your savings goals without significantly impacting your lifestyle.

Where Should You Keep Your Emergency Fund?

When deciding where to keep your emergency fund, it’s essential to choose the right type of account to ensure your money is both safe and accessible. High-yield savings accounts are an excellent option, offering better interest rates than traditional savings accounts while keeping your funds readily available.

Accessibility matters because it ensures everyone can manage their finances effectively, regardless of their abilities. This inclusivity not only promotes equality but also enhances the overall user experience. It’s crucial to avoid risky investments, like stocks or long-term bonds, for your emergency savings.

But where should you keep it?

These investments can fluctuate in value, potentially leaving you without the funds you need in an emergency. By choosing secure and accessible accounts, you can ensure your emergency fund is there when you need it most.

You might consider this a silly question to ask, but as we’ve learned before, you never know what life has to offer. Having an emergency fund is crucial for financial stability. But where should you keep it? Here are some top options:

1. High-Yield Savings Accounts
These accounts are a fantastic choice. They offer higher interest rates than regular savings accounts, allowing your money to grow while staying safe and accessible. You can easily transfer funds when needed, making them perfect for emergencies.

2. Money Market Accounts
Money market accounts combine the benefits of savings and checking accounts. They often come with check-writing privileges and debit cards, providing easy access to your funds. Plus, they typically offer higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts.

3. Certificates of Deposit (CDs)
Short-term CDs can be a good option if you don’t need immediate access to your funds. They offer higher interest rates, but be aware of potential penalties for early withdrawal. It’s a trade-off between earning more interest and having your money locked up for a set period.

4. Traditional Savings Accounts
While the interest rates are generally lower, traditional savings accounts are a safe and straightforward option. Your money is easily accessible, and there’s no risk of losing value. It’s a reliable place to keep your emergency fund.

5. Cash Management Accounts
Offered by brokerage firms, cash management accounts combine features of checking, savings, and investment accounts. They provide flexibility and often come with higher interest rates. These accounts can be a versatile option for managing your emergency fund.

When choosing where to keep your emergency fund, the key is avoiding investments subject to market risk, like stocks or long-term bonds. You need the money to be available without the risk of losing value. I hope this helps you decide where to keep your emergency fund! Do you have any other financial questions?

When and How to Use Your Emergency Fund Wisely

An emergency fund is your financial safety net, but knowing when and how to use it is crucial. Here’s how to manage it wisely:

Identifying Legitimate Emergencies
Your emergency fund should be reserved for true emergencies—situations that are unexpected, necessary, and urgent. Examples include sudden medical expenses, car repairs, or job loss. It’s important to distinguish these from predictable expenses like holiday shopping or routine maintenance, which should be planned for separately.

How to Replenish the Fund After Using It
Once you’ve dipped into your emergency fund, it’s essential to rebuild it as soon as possible. Start by prioritizing your emergency savings in your budget. Consider setting up automatic transfers to your emergency fund account to ensure consistent contributions. Additionally, look for ways to increase your income, such as taking on a side job or selling unused items, to speed up the replenishment process.

Avoiding the Temptation to Dip Into It for Non-Urgent Needs
To keep your emergency fund intact, it’s crucial to avoid using it for non-urgent needs. Keep your emergency savings in a separate account to reduce the temptation. Remind yourself of the fund’s purpose and the peace of mind it provides. If you find yourself tempted, revisit your budget to see if you can reallocate funds from other areas to cover non-emergency expenses.

By identifying legitimate emergencies, replenishing your fund promptly, and avoiding unnecessary withdrawals, you can ensure your emergency fund is there when you truly need it.

As we age, one of the most significant changes we face is the increasing cost of healthcare. It’s a reality that can affect not only your health but also your financial security in retirement.

With more frequent medical visits, prescription medications, and potential long-term care needs, the cost of healthcare can grow substantially.

Understanding and preparing for these expenses is essential to maintaining peace of mind and ensuring financial stability in your golden years.

Why Understanding Healthcare Costs Matters

Understanding healthcare costs as you age is crucial because expenses tend to rise with more frequent medical visits and potential long-term care needs. Accurate knowledge helps you budget for retirement, avoid financial strain, and ensure peace of mind by being prepared for unexpected medical expenses. Understanding healthcare costs as you age is crucial for several reasons:

Rising Costs

Healthcare costs have been going up faster than general inflation for years, and it looks like this trend will keep going. By the time you hit 65, your yearly healthcare expenses could be way higher than when you were younger.

Studies show that healthcare spending can be one of the toughest financial hurdles for retirees, even more than other big living expenses. Getting ready for these costs in advance can help you steer clear of any nasty surprises as your healthcare needs grow.

Budgeting for Retirement

A crucial part of retirement planning is creating a realistic budget that accounts for all potential expenses, including healthcare. While many people rely on Medicare after age 65, it’s important to understand that not all medical costs are covered.

Medicare doesn’t cover certain services, such as dental, vision, and hearing care, leaving retirees to pay out-of-pocket unless they have supplemental insurance. Factoring in these uncovered expenses is key to ensuring that your retirement savings can sustain you through your later years.

Avoiding Financial Strain

One of the greatest risks of unpreparedness is the possibility of financial strain. Unexpected medical expenses, like surgeries or long-term treatments, can quickly drain savings and even lead to bankruptcy in extreme cases.

Planning for healthcare costs ahead of time reduces the risk of financial hardships and gives you the ability to maintain your financial independence and peace of mind during retirement.

How to Prepare Financially

To prepare financially for healthcare costs as you age, start by saving early and consider opening a Health Savings Account (HSA) for its tax advantages. Understand what Medicare covers and explore supplemental insurance options like Medigap or Medicare Advantage.

Look into long-term care insurance to cover services not typically included in Medicare. Maintain a healthy lifestyle to potentially reduce future medical expenses. Lastly, consult with a financial advisor to create a comprehensive plan that includes estimated healthcare costs and strategies to manage them effectively.

– Starting Early

The earlier you start saving for healthcare, the better. Opening a Health Savings Account (HSA), if you’re eligible, can be an excellent way to set aside money for future healthcare costs. HSAs offer tax advantages—contributions are tax-deductible, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free. These accounts allow you to grow savings over time and use them when needed in retirement, ensuring that you’re better equipped to handle future healthcare expenses.

– Understand Medicare

Medicare is a lifeline for many older adults, but it’s important to understand what it covers—and what it doesn’t. Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) come with gaps that could leave you paying more out of pocket than you might expect.

That’s where supplemental plans like Medigap or Medicare Advantage come in. These plans help cover additional costs such as co-pays, deductibles, and services not included in standard Medicare coverage. Being aware of these options can help you manage your expenses more effectively.

– Consider Long-Term Care Insurance

One of the most significant costs many retirees face is long-term care, which includes services like nursing home care, assisted living, or in-home care. Medicare typically doesn’t cover long-term care, and the costs can be staggering.

Purchasing long-term care insurance early can be a smart move to protect yourself from the financial burden of these services. By securing this coverage when you’re still relatively young and healthy, you can lock in lower premiums and ensure you’re prepared for future needs.

– Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

While financial preparation is crucial, so is taking care of your physical health. Living a healthy lifestyle—through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking—can significantly reduce your risk of developing chronic conditions that lead to higher medical costs later in life. Staying healthy not only enhances your quality of life but also minimizes your healthcare expenses in the long run.

– Consult Financial Advisors

Lastly, working with a financial advisor can help you create a comprehensive plan that includes healthcare costs. An advisor can assist you in estimating future medical expenses based on your health, lifestyle, and other factors.

They can also suggest strategies to help you manage these costs, from maximizing your retirement savings to exploring insurance options. With professional guidance, you can feel confident that your financial plan will support your healthcare needs throughout retirement.

To Conclude

Healthcare costs are a major factor in retirement planning, and as you age, they become an increasingly important consideration. By understanding the potential expenses and preparing for them ahead of time, you can safeguard your financial health and enjoy a more secure, worry-free retirement.

Whether it’s through saving early, understanding Medicare, or maintaining a healthy lifestyle, taking proactive steps today will help you manage healthcare costs more effectively tomorrow.