I had that problem with the first cat I had once I was on my own. Nothing worked. I was asked to save another kitten. I used the usual arguments of already having my quota. Needless to say, I ended up with kitten #2. The kittens were close in age and I don't know if they liked each other, but, lo and behold! Presto! Magic! They took their frustrations or anxiety or learning how to attack out on each other and became inseparable right up until 1 died and left the other devastated. I would strongly recommend a playmate. Save your bare feet, your son, your sanity!