The ones he takes are f/t fuzzy rats so he should be used to the smell. I have tried feeding him mice once in the past (as that’s what the breeder fed) which he didn’t take. I did notice when attempting to feed him he is looking exclusively at the food and not me but have tried feeding him from behind to see if he will eat if I’m hidden. Sadly it made no difference! I do wish he would take immediately because I am afraid of bacteria growing when it’s left out, but I would rather him eat then starve. I’m guessing he has always been picky as when I got him he was definitely on the thin side.