Nine ½ Lives Short Story Writing Contest

Every old cat has a story: the gentle weight of their presence, the way they’ve shaped your days, the quiet wisdom in their slowing steps. Now it’s time to share yours.

The Tuxedo Party of Canada is seeking short stories (between 1,000 to 2,000 words) that capture the love, warmth, and tender truths of living with senior cats. It could be a memoir, a tribute, or a tale inspired by your feline companion. 

The winning story will be published in our upcoming short story anthology. The anthology will celebrate the grace and quirkiness of aging cats and the humans who cherish them.  

All proceeds from book sales will go to support Spay Day HRM, a registered charity in Halifax, N.S. Since 2011, Spay Day has spayed and neutered over 7,100 cats. This has prevented the birth of thousands of unwanted kittens. They also rescue and adopt cats and kittens. Spay Day HRM is 100% volunteer-based and receives no government funding.


What We’re Looking For

Stories that honour the everyday magic of old cats: their quirks, their comfort, their companionship. Writing that is honest and heartfelt. Heartwarming stories that make readers smile, nod in recognition, or reach down to pet their own old friend.

Prize

Publication in our anthology, a contributor’s copy of the book. Plus, the joy of seeing your words in print alongside fellow cat lovers. And the satisfaction that you have contributed to cat welfare through this fundraiser.

Submission Guidelines

·        1,000 to 2,000 words per story

·        Submitted in a Word document 

·        Focused on your relationship with a special senior cat

·        Humorous, heartwarming and/or uplifting stories 

·        A photo or two of your old friend if possible/available  

·        Deadline: Saturday, February 28th

·        How to submit: Send your Word doc to JoePops@refusetobeboring.com

Why Enter?

Because your cat deserves to have its story told. Because the world needs more writing that celebrates aging with tenderness. Because there’s a community of readers waiting to meet your cat. And because there are cats who need help. 

Submit your story today. Give your old friend the tribute they’ve earned.

Contest Legal Disclaimer

By submitting your work to this contest, you confirm that:

  • You are the original author and hold all rights to the submitted work
  • Your submission is original and has not been previously published
  • You grant The Tuxedo Party of Canada non-exclusive publication rights for the anthology
  • You retain copyright to your work and may publish it elsewhere after anthology publication
  • You agree to these terms and conditions

·        Your name and biographical information may be used in the anthology

Note: All submissions must comply with applicable laws. The Tuxedo Party of Canada is not responsible for lost, late, or misdirected entries. The Tuxedo Party of Canada reserves the right to edit submissions for length, clarity, and content. Contest judges’ decisions are final.

Click here to download a pdf file of the contest rules: