"Back Off, Blondie"

I have the sweetest, nicest cat in the world. Today, the kiddo attempted to pet him--rub him behind the ears--and he smacked her wrist, without using his claws. It was like he was saying "back off, blondie". Of course, the kiddo's feelings were hurt and she started to cry, but I had no sympathy for her. After all, she chases and pesters and bothers and annoys the poor cat every chance she gets. If he had scratched her, I would have been sympathetic enough to put ointment and a bandaid on her, but not much else. As the cat gets older, he won't be as tolerant, so I'm hoping this will be a good lesson for her.