Can you tell I have some fear issues myself? That episode with the feathers really freaked me out and I'm easily overwhelmed.
I understand. I have one of those feather things on the end of a fishing-pole arrangement. Two fosters that I have had would go insane over it and I don't mean in a cute way, but in a scary one. They took it way too seriously and were aggressive toward anyone nearby--cats or humans.

My two cats catch real mice and bring them to me without nearly as much hysteria.

So, once I see that behavior, the toy will not come out again. They were OK without that toy.

I think Krazyaboutkatz is right and he'll outgrow the food issues.

Good luck to you.