How to Handle a Dwarf Hamster

Dwarf hamsters can be fabulous pets if cared for properly. If not handled regularly, dwarf hamsters may exhibit aggressive behavior. If you have a new hamster, certain precautions should be taken when handling it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A tube or jar
• Hamster treats

1. Wash your hands to remove any smells that might distract the hamster.

2. Place your hand in the cage and let the dwarf hamster get used to your scent for a few minutes.

3. If your hamster is new to you, hold a jar or tube in the cage near the dwarf hamster. It is very likely that the hamster will climb right in. If it doesn’t, you can give the hamster a nudge to get it inside.

4. Remove the dwarf hamster from the tube or jar and place it in your hand.

5. Gently pet the hamster and talk quietly to it. You may also feed it treats out of your hand.

6. Repeat these steps every day for several weeks until it seems your hamster is used to you. At that point, you may pick it up directly out of its cage. You can pick your dwarf hamster up by the back of the neck or put your hand flat in the bottom of the cage and see if it will crawl on by itself.

Tips & Warnings

• Never wake a dwarf hamster from sleep. It will very likely bite you. Since hamsters are nocturnal, handling them in the evening hours when they are active is most desirable.
• Be sure to handle your dwarf hamster regularly, as it may revert to aggressive behavior. Dwarf hamsters become untamed much quicker than other hamsters.