The issue of F/T or live food is up to you - and the snake! Start with what you prefer (or what's easiest to acquire), and then try another type of prey if he rejects it. We had to try a F/T rat pup, then a live rat pup, and finally a live mouse before Delilah would eat... she's just a mouse girl, I suppose. Oh, and wait about a week in-between attempts, so they don't get stressed.

As for preparing the F/T prey, I just soak it in warm - not HOT - water for a few hours (while sealed in a plastic bag). I was told to take it out every 30 minutes, squeeze the excess water, and lay it back in... I guess to prevent it from getting soggy? Some people use hairdryers to get the prey warm, but I personally haven't tried that yet. Just don't use a microwave, LOL.