I don't know about the sock thing, but if you guy is like mine and really only likes live food, then I would suggest that you make sure that the rat/mouse has been fed. I know that there are exceptions to every situation, but you shouldn't have any issues with the rats or mice trying to hurt your ball as long as the rat or mouse isn't hungry. I have talked to several breeders and other people who have had bad experiences, and they all say that typically the snake will be fine as long as the rat or mouse isn't hungry, and also as long as you don't leave it in the tank with your snake unattended for too long. i.e. more than 10 minutes. I hope any of this helps.