I don't believe that was the entire purpose of this thread.  Im also pretty sure that I wouldn't have to go back through all of the posts in renderosity archives to show that rude cat derailments did not only take place in threads where someone was "stirring resentment over forum rules". 

Whatever the topic, members should have the right to discuss it as long as it is within the TOS without rude Maggies screaming MYCATMYCATMYCAT.  If you don't like the thread and really really really really want to talk about cats, why not start an OT thread (perfectly within the tos afaik) titled "We really aren't here to discuss anything other than cats" - than all of us who could give two craps less about cats can just skip them.   Just like you could skip threads that are discussing topics you lack interest in. 

I guess at this point I should disclaimer:  I don't hate cats or dogs or cute babies or little old ladies. 

I am:  aka Velocity3d