I have had to assist feed a few animals from a couple of different clutches. It is very challenging but be patient. Even once you have the prey item in its mouth, hold the animal as still as you can for as long as you can and wait them out. Slowly, and I mean very slowly, release some of your grip but not enough for them to throw the item, just enough for them to feel less pressure. Then wait some more. I have sat with a baby on the floor on a newspaper for 20 minutes before it finally started moving it's mouth in an eating motion. Once they do that just slowly release them all the way and see what happens. If the do throw it then do it again. Also, don't think because you assist feed them once they will start eating for you. I have had to assist some snakes upwards of eight to ten times before the finally started eating on their own. BTW, I used mouse hoppers dunked in warm water. That way there is a scent and yet they were pretty slick. Like others said, the smaller the item, the easier it is to get it a little farther in and more difficult for them to throw. I wish you the best of luck and don't give up.
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