How to Handle Aggressive Hamsters

Hamsters are cute pets but being held isn't one of their favorite things. In the wild they are prey, so their nature is to respond with some aggression. Sometimes they will run away from you or even bite, but you should remember they aren't doing this to be mean. The good news is they can become tame. For this to happen, they must learn to trust you and this can only occur over time.

Instructions

1. Avoid annoying your hamster. Hamsters are nocturnal animals and get most of their sleep during daytime hours. They don't like being bothered when they are sleeping. Don't disturb your hamster during the day unless it's an emergency.

2. Give your hamster time to get to know you. Start familiarizing him with your hand by offering him treats with your hand in the cage. When he finally comes to your hand when you put it in the cage, try to pet him. Don't move suddenly or you will frighten him. After he is comfortable with petting, you can try to gently scoop him up. Hold him for a short time, gradually increasing your time together.

3. Let your hamster know you're around before you reach in the cage and grab him. Speak to him or tap gently on his cage to ensure he's awake and move your hand in his cage slowly. If your hand swoops in from overhead or behind, he may react aggressively.

4. Wash your hands before picking your hamster up or putting your hand in his cage. Hamsters have poor eyesight and rely on their senses of smell and sound. If they smell something tasty on your hand, they may want to nibble on it.

5. If your hamster attempts to jump while you're holding him, let him jump and gently pick him up again.

6. Be prepared for a bite at some point. If your hamster does bite you, don't shake your hand to release him because you could injure him. Instead, gently grasp him with your free hand and pull him away.

Tips & Warnings

• Give your hamster several days to become accustomed to a new home before trying to work with him.

• Hamsters are intelligent and will respond to petting and holding, but in their own time. Don't give up.

• If your hamster escapes before he is tame, try to corner him and ease him into a clear glass or cup while wearing gloves.

• If you are dealing with a hamster that has had bad experiences, begin handling him with gloves.

• Hold your hamster so he is facing you.

• If your hamster is biting another hamster, separate them.

References

• Small Animal Channel: Hamster Interaction
• The Hamster Club: Handling an Aggressive Hamster

Resources

• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: Hamsters
• The Pet Web Site: About Hamsters