So I'm trying a live rat feeding tomorrow.

[IndySnake]

Tomorrow I have decided to try one of my 09 Balls on a live rat. It's nerve racking just thinking about it, but I'm optimistic. I tried a f/t once and he didn't even seem interested. At this point, he can eat 5 mice in one setting so I really want to get him on rats cause I know they're suppose to be healthier for the snake as well.

My plan is to have tongs and a towel on hand in case there is need for some assistance. I think he'll be ok because he has an amazing feeding response (He usually always gets their head in his mouth) but I still worry.

Has anyone else got worried like this when switching from mice to rats? Any helpful tips you care to share?

[MitsuMike]

Scent the rat with mouse scent (bedding or actual mice) but use a smaller rat (rat weaner) as to not freak out your snake. A rat equal to 5 mice (25 grams a piece) would be a scary experience for a snake who has never eat/seen a rat.

[IndySnake]

Yeah I thinking about using that scenting process as well but I never thought about a smaller rat. That makes sense though definitely.

I figure I'll try a small rat this week and if he takes it, you think next week it would be alright to try a medium sized one, or would that still be too soon?

[snakesRkewl]

Large weanlings might be your best bet, and don't scent till you get refusals, if the snake accepts the rats scent your good to go, if not you may have to pre-scent every feeding

[IndySnake]

Thanks so much! I think i will try without prescenting first and see how it goes. He's a good eater so hopefully he'll take it without any problems