You will need to bond and tame your hamster before you can handle it.It's a good idea to bond with your hamster before you try to hold it.As you build a bond with your hamster, be patient and work slowly.
Step 1: Pick a type of cage.
There are a number of different types of hamster cages.There are benefits and drawbacks to each cage.If you want to know which type of cage is best for you and your new hamster, check out the following list.They may have small openings that allow smaller hamsters to escape.It is possible to provide a safe and secure home for your hamster.The cages are more difficult to clean.Plastic habitats can be very engaging for a hamster.Plastic habitats are difficult to clean and have poor air quality.
Step 2: The cage should be the right size.
There is plenty of room for your hamster to run, sleep, eat, and play in.If you want your hamster to nest and burrow in, you will have to find a big cage.You should leave room for any toys or exercise equipment that you plan on putting in the cage.A minimum of two square feet is required for a cage.
Step 3: You can find the best spot for the cage.
Once you have a cage for your hamster, you need to find a good spot in your home.The ideal temperature for your hamster will be between 65-75 degrees.The cage should not be placed next to strong drafts, heat sources, or sunlight.The cage should be in a place that's close to the ground.If your hamster is disturbed often or is in a noisy environment, they will not feel comfortable.
Step 4: Allow your new pet to get used to it.
If you have just brought a new hamster home, you will want to give it time to get used to its new environment.It will be more relaxed and open to bonding with you if you let your hamster adjust to its new home.It can take up to three weeks to bond with your hamster, so be patient and work slowly.
Step 5: Introduce yourself to your pet.
Introduce yourself to your hamster by approaching the cage more often.Don't try to do too much at once.Allow your hamster to see and hear you.Let the hamster know that you are nearby.As you introduce yourself, try talking to it.Don't try to touch the hamster, you can place your hand in the cage.Before any handling is attempted, allow your hamster to get used to you.
Step 6: Try petting your pet.
While your hamster is eating it's food, you can try petting it.It will eventually relax and enjoy your handling of it if you show your hamster that your touch is nothing to fear.It may take a few days for your hamster to get used to you touching it.Don't attempt to get the hamster.If your hamster wants to hide, let it.
Step 7: Start feeding your hamster.
After your hamster has been given time to adjust to its new home, you can start feeding it.Don't force any interaction between you and your hamster, work towards this goal slowly.Place your hand in the cage without food.If you want your hamster to investigate your hand on its own, don't try to touch it.When you put it in the cage, add a treat to your hand.Allow your hamster to take the treat if it wants to.
Step 8: Pick up your hamster.
You can try to pick your hamster up after you're used to it.As you work, watch for any signs of stress or fear in your hamster.Lifting your hamster by the tail or the front legs will cause injury.You should support the entire body of the hamster by cupping your hands.Lift your hamster out of the cage by putting it on your hand.Any pain that your hamster feels will cause it to fear you.If your hamster escapes from your hand, make sure it doesn't fall.
Step 9: Pick up your hamster and hold it.
If your hamster is comfortable with you picking it up, you can take it out of the cage and play.It's always a good idea to be careful when holding your hamster.As you hold it, never squeeze your hamster.If your hamster jumps from your hands, hold it close to the ground or near your lap.If your hamster bites you, it may take a while to get back to the cage.
Step 10: Put your hamster in a toy.
An exercise ball is a great way for your hamster to explore.These hollow balls are great for your hamster to exercise in.Exercise balls can be used to keep your hamster safe.You should still look for dangers such as a staircase.Allow your hamster to play for no more than twenty minutes before giving them a food and water break.
Step 11: Check for dangers.
Before you let your hamster out to explore, you need to make sure the room is safe.You will need to keep a close eye on the hamsters as they play, they can move quickly and are easily injured.Pets and animals are not allowed in the room.Your hamster might chew on electrical cords.Your hamster might get stuck if you block off small spaces.