I have found no problems spraying the sides of the cage, not the actual substrate. (Which, you are right, it could cause scale rot if they sit in moisture for too long.) I have also put a little bucket or dish in there filled half way with water and put like 2 or 3 paper towels in there. Put it on the hot side of the tank, and in no time, we're talking 75% humidity. Nice for the DAY you suspect they will shed. I wouldn't leave it in there too long (for days or something), that's asking for an RI.

Well, did you try shaking the f/t rat in front of his face before laying them in the plastic containter together, to see if he is interested? How much weight has he lost? If it is a couple grams, I wouldn't worry about it. But did you say the last time he ate f/t was two months ago, or the last time he ate PERIOD (not even live) was two months ago? Because if he will still eat live willingly, by all means, feed him. Just monitor the feedings closely, and there won't be a problem. ( I dangle the live rats over their head and the grab it out of my hand sometimes (the ones that don't eat f/t). Otherwise, if he won't eat at all, it is completely normal for ball pythons to go off feed this time of year (ESPECIALLY males).

Jennifer