When my rat Mack had pneumonia, I spent $700 for the vet (3 nights in an emergency clinic on oxygen + meds + x-rays + two trips to my regular vet). I didn't sleep at all that week. I skipped three classes. I ate maybe two packs of Ramen noodles and a couple glasses of Hawaiian punch (which I shared with Mack). (He survived and recovered, BTW. The vet had said he wouldn't.)

If my parents knew I did that, sheesh, I'd get ****! (The typical topic of conversation is if I am eating right and getting enough sleep... Of course I am. LOL) And I don't want anyone to think my babies are a burden, so I just don't mention it...