This really won't help but since you said he avoids the kitchen it got me thinking about Ripley. He used to run and hide for a little while when ever I would get a new trash bag out to put in the trash can. He still runs but he no longer hides. He also does that whenever we get ice from the ice maker, get out pots and pans or unload the dishwasher. He cries from the noise. Maybe Nugget is an extra sensitive boy like ole Rip.