Before you can hold your hamster, you must bond with it and tame it. Bonding with your hamster before attempting to hold it will make your hamster feel comfortable and prevent bites caused by fear or stress. Take it slow and be patient while bonding with your hamster.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Providing a Fun and Cozy Cage
Step 1. Choose the type of cage
When looking for a hamster cage, you will find several types of cages. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. Consider the list below to find out what type of cage is best for you and your hamster:
- Wire cages are very easy to clean and well ventilated. However, this cage has small openings that can allow the little hamster to escape.
- A glass aquarium can be a safe place for hamsters. But this type of cage is more difficult to clean.
- Plastic cages provide funnels for the hamster to assemble as well as passageways. The disadvantages of plastic cages are the lack of ventilation and are very difficult to clean.
Step 2. Buy a cage of the right size
Hamsters want to have plenty of room to run, sleep, eat and play. You'll need to find a cage that's large enough for your hamster to build a nest and stockpile its food. Remember to make room for the toys and exercise equipment you want to put in the cage.
You will need a cage that is at least 60 cm square
Step 3. Find the best place for the cage
Once you have a cage for your hamster, you will need to find a good place in your home to store the cage. You should find a place that meets the criteria below:
- The ideal temperature for hamsters is between 18-23 degrees Celsius.
- Avoid places where it is very windy, near a heat source, or in direct sunlight.
- Place the cage in a quiet place. Hamsters will not feel comfortable if disturbed by a noisy environment.
Part 2 of 3: Holding a Hamster
Step 1. Let your hamster adapt
If you have recently raised a hamster, you should give it time to get used to its new cage and environment. By allowing your hamster to adapt, he will feel more comfortable and more open to bonding with you.
It will take you 3 weeks to bond with your hamster, so be patient and take it slow
Step 2. Introduce yourself to the hamster
Begin to approach the cage more often and introduce yourself to the hamster. Do not rush. Let your hamster see and hear you without needing to be touched or held.
- Let the hamster know that you are nearby. Try talking to him when you introduce yourself.
- You can try putting your hand in the cage, but don't try to touch the hamster.
- Let your hamster get used to your scent and presence before attempting to touch it.
Step 3. Try petting your hamster
While your hamster is eating a delicious treat or treat, you can try petting the hamster. By showing that your touch is not something to be afraid of, over time he will calm down and like your touch.
- It will take a few days for your hamster to get used to your touch.
- Do not attempt to lift the hamster at this point.
- If your hamster is tense and wants to hide, let it be.
Step 4. Start hand-feeding your hamster
Once your hamster has had time to adapt to its new home and owner, you can start hand-feeding it. Do it slowly and never force the interaction between you and the hamster.
- Start by placing your hands in the cage without food. Don't try to touch your hamster, instead, let it examine your hand on its own.
- Carry a treat in your hand when you put your hand in the cage. Let the hamster investigate and bring the treat if he wants it.
Step 5. Try lifting the hamster
Once your hamster has gotten used to your presence and touch, you can try to pick it up. Do it slowly and gently, and watch for signs of stress or fear from the hamster.
- Never lift a hamster by its tail or forelegs as this will result in injury.
- Make sure you shovel the hamster with your hands to support the hamster's entire body.
- Let the hamster climb up and into your hands before removing it from the cage.
- Any pain and discomfort your hamster feels will break the bond and make the hamster fear you.
- Make sure your hamster won't be in pain from falling if he escapes from your hand.
Part 3 of 3: Playing Outside the Cage
Step 1. Pick up the hamster and hold it firmly
Once your hamster has been tamed and is comfortable with being picked up, you can take him out of the cage to play. As always, be careful when handling your hamster to prevent injury or stress.
- Never squeeze your hamster while handling it.
- Hold your hamster near the ground or near your lap in case it jumps out of your hand.
- If your hamster bites you, it may be tired and want to return to its cage.
Step 2. Put the hamster into the ball
Hamster balls are a great way for your hamster to explore the house safely. The empty ball that the hamster can enter can be moved by the hamster so he can exercise properly.
- The hamster ball will keep your hamster safe while walking around the house.
- You should still pay attention to some dangerous places like stairs or other high surfaces.
- Let your hamster play for up to twenty minutes before giving it time to eat and drink.
Step 3. Check for distress
Before letting your hamster out of the cage to explore and exercise, you should check the room for any potentially dangerous objects. Hamsters can move quickly and get injured easily, so you should pay attention to them when they are playing.
- Remove pets or other animals from the room.
- Look for a power cord that your hamster can bite.
- Cover any small gaps that the hamster can enter and trap it.
Tips
- When bonding, do it slowly.
- Never force interactions, as this could make your hamster distrust you.
- Interact with your hamster at least once a day.
Warning
- Hamsters are very vulnerable and very easily injured. Always be careful when handling it.
- If your hamster bites you, clean and sterilize the wound well.
- Always wash your hands before and after handling your hamster.
