Hamsters can make very nice small pets. They have some advantages over larger pets, and one of these advantages is their small size. Being small, they don’t need a lot of room, and are usually easy to care for. They don’t eat nearly as much as, for instance, a 30 lb dog or a 10 lb cat.
When you first get your hamster, or are picking one out at the pet shop, keep in mind that the hamster doesn’t know you yet. It may be a little (or a lot) afraid. When hamsters get afraid, they might bite or try to run away. To avoid getting bitten by a new hamster, let him or her get to know you gradually. If there is a cage or tank with several hamsters in it, don’t just reach in and grab one and pick it up. Use the back of your fingers to pet the hamster on its back. Do this gently. If you have a hamster treat, offer it to him.
After a little petting, if the hamster looks like he doesn’t mind being petted and doesn’t appear to be afraid, then you might be able to pick it up. Reach around the middle of the hamster, gently pick it up and remove it from the cage or tank. Don’t stand up with the hamster, or raise him up too high. If he or she should fall, or jump, your hamster could really get hurt. Keep the hamster down low, maybe put him on your lap, or somewhere where he can’t get away or jump down to get hurt.
Keep petting your new hamster and handle him or her gently. Avoid sudden movements and loud noises. If your hamster starts to get nervous and tries to bite or gets really afraid, put him back in his cage and try again later. Just do this little by little and your new hamster will learn to trust you, and become a good pet.
Here are some treats your hamster might like:
Yogurt Drops
Fruit Sticks
Snix Snax
Healthy Bits Treat
Tags: Small Animals
