Geronimo's the same way. He hasn't actually hauled off and attacked me while petting him, but there were a few occasions where I moved too suddenly while he was on my lap and the sudden movement spooked him and caused him to lash out. He has serious issues due to being abused before I got him and is extremely hypersensitive. I have to be cautious around him when he gets in one of his "moods". I've tried using the Rescue Remedy on him to help calm him down, but it doesn't seem to have much of an effect on him.

I really don't know what to tell you that may help.

Some cats are just hypersensitive for whatever reason, and you just have to be cautious around them. I wish I had some advice to give you....