I feed my ball python adult mice because they are cheaper and easier to get. I can get 3 adult mice for $1.50 each while a small rat is $5. If my snake decides to only eats two one week then it is not a big deal. But if he decides to not eat the rat. It is a pain to remove from the tank and get rid of.

Like a lot of people have said, you have to do what works best for you and your snake. I feel more comfortable handling mice.

-Mike