How to feed "Live" prey

[Sariel]

Tuna, chicken broth, or any kind of scenting using "smelly" foods will not work. It just won't. Why would a ball python be more enticed by a rat that smells like a fish? Or a rat that smells like a bird? It makes no sense.

Braining is basically just that...exposing the brain. I don't think this is very helpful either. It just makes a mess.

Ok I do have to disagree on the tuna not working part, I have the utmost respect for the advice Kaorte gives from what I've seen on the forum, but Ive seen tuna scenting work first hand on one of my finicky eaters. I also know that BHB uses this method for some of theirs and has success with it.

I started with a fire that wouldnt eat at all, dropped a live mouse in with some canned tuna for alittle while, she struck immediately, once it was introduced into her tub. I also got her to switch to F/T this way by scenting a few live for consecutive feedings, then scenting a f/t and offering it on feeding day. No hesitation were before she had no interest in f/t.