How hard is it to switch from mices, to rats?

[BHReptiles]

My ball python is about 12 inchs, and 227 grams. hes got alot more growing to do, and I'm scared that just feeding him large mices aren't gonna cut it when hes 4-5 feet.
So i want to switch him to rats. How hard is it?

I'm currently feeding him live mices, every 5 days.

I've read a lot of stories of Ball pythons, or snakes in general not switching prey easily. Is this true for most snakes? Is it really that hard to switch prey items for snakes?

It depends on the snake. I've had some that switch no problem and some that I have to work a little harder to switch. Usually if they are a great eater with few refusals, they tend to switch easier. Now, some won't give you any issues. The best you can do is buy a rat (probably a rat fuzzy) and see if he'll take it. You might think about feeding a live rat fuzzy or two before you switch to F/T if that's something you're interested in doing. Also, if he doesn't take a rat right away, go to any pet store and ask for USED mouse bedding. Let the rat fuzzy run around on it and collect that scent then offer. There's also other kinds of things you can do to get them to eat rats. First though, just offer a rat. If he doesn't take it, then we can help you explore other options.