GETTING TO KNOW YOUR HAMSTER

When buying a hamster, always make sure that the seller handles it in your presence. Never buy a hamster that has been chased around the habitat into a box or has been caught by someone wearing safety gloves. This may indicate that the animal is not socialised, that no one has handled it up to that point or that the seller is afraid of it.

When you get home, place the habitat in a place where there is no draught or direct sunlight. Leave it there overnight to allow the hamster to settle in and get used to its new environment (don't forget that hamsters are nocturnal). Talking very softly and gently, offering treats such as fruit, salad or unsalted boiled chicken can help them feel more comfortable and trust us more.

Always approach the hamster gently and without sudden movements so as not to frighten it. If it is asleep, gently tap the cage or nest to wake it up and let it out of the nest. Never grab the hamster while it is asleep in its nest, this will only frighten it and it may bite you.

START HOLDING YOUR HAMSTER

The first few times you hold it, it may be best to remove the top of the habitat, if possible, so that you can pick up the hamster more easily without having to chase it. It is a good idea to place the habitat inside a large box first, so that when you lift the top of the cage, the hamster cannot escape.

You can lift your hamster by placing one hand firmly but gently around its body, with the head pointing towards your wrist and immediately placing it in the palm of your other hand, or you can cup both hands and lift your hamster. Either way is fine, use whichever is easiest for you.

Carefully lift the hamster a few inches away from the cage, so that if it slips out of your hands, it won't fall or get hurt. Speak softly and quietly as you hold the hamster and stroke it gently, avoiding touching its head. If it struggles to escape from your grip, never hold it too tightly, as you may hurt it and it may bite you.

Therefore, if he resists, let him fall and a few seconds later try to pick him up again. Repeat this process until he feels more secure in your hand. Once he knows you are not going to hurt him and you are both more confident, you will see your hamster waiting to come out for you to handle him.

Hamsters also like to sit on your arm, which is held close to your body and supported by your other hand, which makes them feel safe and secure. It is a good idea not to give your hamster a home for the first few weeks, as this can make it harder to encourage it to go outside. Once the hamster is used to your voice, you can introduce it to the house if you wish.

A LITTLE TIP

One rule to remember is to always make sure your hands are clean before handling your hamster. They don't see very well and rely on their sense of smell, so if you've been eating something tasty, such as treats etc., you may bite your finger thinking it's something tasty. Finally, as a hygiene measure, always wash your hands again once you have finished handling your hamster.