Rat pups are a bit big for hatchlings. Most people I have met start off with F/T or live mouse hoppers. Personally I haven't had a clutch yet, so maybe I am not the right person to give you advice, but I have learned from one of the best breeders around here and starts his hatchlings off with live and F/T mouse hoppers. We can't get live rats here. I suggest you try something smaller and different, like mice.