'When she's in a bathroom, she's super affectionate' Family and other creatures Student Alexander Stelfox tells us about his very own feline warrior princess, a 12-year-old black cat by the name of Xena.

Byline: Alexander Stelfox

Who are you and what is your pet?

My name is Alexander Stelfox, an ex-student of Crossley Heath School, soon to go to university, and my pet is a black cat called Xena. She is black all over apart from two distinctive white patches on her neck and stomach and she's 12 this year.

How long have your had your pet?

We got Xena when she was a kitten and we've had her since before we moved to our current home, but I think a more appropriate question is how long has your cat owned you.

Was there a particular reason for your choice of pet's name?

At the time we got Xena, I watched a TV show called Xena: Warrior Princess on Channel 5. Seeing cats as good hunters - and by extension warriors - I decided it would be a good idea to name her after the lead character in the show.

What's the best thing about your pet?

Any time you go into a bathroom in the house, Xena is very likely to have followed you in there. Usually she'll only bother you if she wants food or to be let outside, but when she's in a bathroom she's super affectionate for some reason.

Xena has a very nice coat of fur and she'll rub her head against yours if you lean down to her.

Has your pet got any naughty or interesting traits?

Some things are inherent in all cats - ripping of sofas, carpets and important documents. Xena does all of this, but also pulls out her fur a lot when you're out of the house. She leaves huge piles of it all over the place.

Also, eating grass and then throwing up.

Do you have a cute kitty or a dog with a story. We'd like to feature your family pet in the Examiner.

Call 01484 437719 or email [e-mail]