Building Trust: How to Get Close to a Hamster

1. On the first day at home, your hamster will likely feel disoriented and fearful due to the new surroundings. To help ease its discomfort, it's best to avoid handling it. You can cover its cage with a cloth to create a sense of security in the darkness, which can help soothe its anxiety and nervousness.

2. In the initial couple of days after bringing your hamster home, closely observe its routine. Note when it wakes up, sleeps, and eats. As your hamster's demeanor becomes more settled, you can start feeding it by hand. Try to do this when your hamster seems particularly content. Initially, feed through the cage gaps to avoid startling it. Be patient, as it may take time for your hamster to accept food from your hand. By offering a variety of foods, you can discover its preferences and what it enjoys eating most.

3. Once feeding becomes more comfortable, you can consider reaching into the cage to feed your hamster. This will help it get accustomed to the scent of your hand. However, it's crucial not to rush the process and never attempt to grab your hamster without warning.

4. When feeding, if your hamster seems completely at ease, without signs of worry or anxiety, you can try placing it in your palm for feeding. If its paws remain relaxed and warm, this indicates a sense of security. Conversely, if its paws tense up, it's still feeling tense. Building trust takes time, and you may need to spend more time to foster a closer bond.

5. Dedicate about ten minutes each day to these interactions for about a month. Gradually, your hamster will start to trust you more and may even climb onto your arm. If your hamster is not fond of physical contact, you can use an empty box lined with a towel for training. For particularly feisty or nippy hamsters, wearing biteproof gloves can be a wise choice when trying to bond.

Patience is key when getting to know your hamster. Never lose your temper, as this can hinder the bonding process. If you're seeking more insights on how to build a closer relationship with your hamster, consider consulting an online pet veterinarian for additional guidance.