Pets

response to me rubbing her belly. She did it when younger, but allows brief belly rubs now without any risk to my hand and arm. Instead of attacking me, she just turns over to deny me belly access when she's had enough.

Other people can touch Ember's head, rub behind her ears, and pet her shoulders. When it comes to sensitive areas like her belly, I am the only person who has that degree of physical contact privilege with Ember. Not so with vets. As soon as they see Ember coming into the exam room, they reach for protective equipment and a muzzle. Actually, they hear her threatening growls before they see her.

She has a strong sense of personal physical space and feline dignity rights.