Jake is doing very well, and has not bitten himself again. I've switched to feeding him every 2 weeks instead of 3. Thanks for this advice - I think he was just too hungry when he had his 'accident'.

I've tried switching Jake to freshly killed rats, but so far it hasn't worked. I've also talked to his former owner, and she tells me that she could never get him to eat anything but live. (for 13 years)

A few days after he does his #2, he becomes very active in his enclosure at night. (is this hunting?) This is when I go and buy him his next meal. But, if its dead, Jake doesn't pay any attention to it. But, the minute I give him a live rat, he jumps on it right away. I just can't make him wait too long, I'm afraid he'll stop eating completely.

Also, I don't know what size rat to feed Jake. Once, Jake ate a rat that was huge - much bigger than his body. It took him a long time, and I didn't think he'd get it down, but he did. But, most of the time when I ask for a large rat, they give me one that isn't as wide as Jake's body.

So, I have a few questions:
1. What is the best way to make the switch to killed rats?
2. Exactly how big should Jake's rats be? (Jake is 46 inches long.)

Thanks for any help!
April