I recently (about 1 week ago) got my first ball python. My question is concerning feeding....I tried last night to offer him his first meal he did not seem at all interested in the live rat hopper. Now this I understand is common and can happen in a new setting so Im not concered about this. My question is should next week I offer the snake a mouse (thats what he was feeding at the breeders, but the mice just didnt look big enough where I was) and also, I am feeding him in his cage.... should I pull out some of the "stuff" I have in there like the water dish and driftwood and just leave his hide? The rat kept hiding in different places. My last question for all you snake handlers is should I wait to handle my little guy until after he takes his first meal? I seem to be getting mixed advice online and know I can get the best info here from you all. Thanks for looking

Chris