The best time of day to handle your hamster is the evening, between 7 and 10pm when he will be most active. My approach is to clear a big space for the hamster, put the cage in this space and either open the door or take the top off.
By taking your hamster out at certain times you can slowly change your hamsters daily routine, this way you can handle your hamster when your not asleep!
When your hamster has got used to its new home and its reasonably calm you can begin to start the bonding process or training, make sure you have clean hands and there are no unusual scents such as food as you may not have a finger!
Note: Avoid lifting up your Hamster from above as it can cause uncertainty and also could trigger a nibble!
When your hamster is roaming around its cage, you can practise scooping it up using both hands so he begins to get used to your touch and feel. Don't be worried if your hamster is a little 'jumpy' as this very normal for a new hamster but giving it time it will settle down.
When picking up your hamster make sure you are not far from the ground to minimize your hamsters fall if he decides to go for a quick bunjy.
Warning: Your hamster can become exceedingly aggressive when you try to lift your hamster it may rolls on its back and put its paws up in the air, if yours hamster becomes in this position it is better to stay right away before giving your hamster a early lunch!
If your hamster maintains an aggressive stance, try snapping him/her out of it by tempting with a treat or delicacy you can visit our food page for more information on different varieties of hamster food.
Meanwhile you feed your hamster you can attempt to stroke your hamsters back, which should boost you and your hamsters confidence, remember you aren't the only one a little nervous! And in time this fear can become a fun activity for you and your hamster.
Hamsters having been kept as pets for a very long time now and many people are dis-heartened by the fear of being bitter with those sharp front teeth, hamsters are very conscious of being touched around the eyes and mouth so I recommend at first to stay away from these zones and stick to stroking its back or in-between the ears. These are both 'Hamster comfort zones'
Related Articles: Exercise
