wth is a soft furred rat? i would just keep trying every week and everytime u try.. do it late at night like at 1 am.. ive never had this problem but i know my snake always comes out late at night so thats the best bet u have.. if he doesnt eat for a long time i heard its not 2 much of a big problem because they can go months without eating.. but if it gets skinny then u might have to start force feeding it