[Viking2002]

Rubbing any feline’s belly is The World’s Stupidest Move if the cat doesn’t know you. It’s an instinctive vulnerable spot and you’ll get one helluva response if you’re not practically already married to the animal.

[DoodleBob]

True, but I suspect scratching kitteh behind the ears and rubbing kitteh under the chin wouldn't have helped matters. Besides, everyone knows the best way to tame a wild cat is with a car.

[sageburn]

I rubbed a cougar’s belly once. It felt so squishy and I could actually feel stretch marks so I ignored her and asked the bartender for another drink.

[drop 50 and fire for effect]

We’ve had that would lay on its back and demand you rub his belly. When he was satisfied, he’d attack your hand, why? Because he was an a—h-—.

[rlmorel]

Yes...most cat owners know that a cat's belly is a sacrosanct place that must not be touched lest it blow the "fuze" and turns them into a hand-shredding monster!

I love this picture-he looks like he is ready to mow on my hand, but...it is all theater. He does forget once in a while with his claws, but it because he is an enthusiastic playmate.