I can understand the appeal of feeding a live rat at least once. I was excited to feed my ball for the first time, as well as my blood and whenever I think it's time to step up prey size I like to see a live feed... Of course, I was lucky enough to get a ball who eats whatever you put in front of him, and Bloods have a strong feeding response anyway. I may be new to this hobby, but Richs comment sounds right to me, there's nothing wrong with it if it's done right!