Well you probably know how to instinctively read cat behavior. A lot of cats can only stand being touched in a way that isn’t their own choice for so long before it sort of builds up. You probably put your hand out, mostly let the, pet themselves—especially with cats you don’t know. Most other people expect a cat to accept whatever kind of pets they’re dishing out. Every cat is different. Some like to get pet roughly, some can take it for a few seconds before it starts to raise their ire, some don’t like it at all. Some will walk away, some will hiss, some will do this weirdly gentle attack to let you know your time is expired, some will actually attack, though they are more rare. All depends on the cat and your particular way of petting them. Be smart, this doesn’t happen.