How To Train Your Hamster To Help Them Become Tame

With so many pets in the world, there is something for everyone. While larger animals can be great for those with more time and dedication, smaller additions can be perfect for those with limited space who still want a little company at the end of the day. That’s part of what makes hamsters such wonderful pets.

While they might be small, hamsters and full of personality and can quickly become a beloved part of the family. Still, it takes time and effort to build a bond with your new furry addition. Learning how to train your hamster to help them become tame should help with the first steps when welcoming them to your home.

1. Let your hamster adjust to their new home

Moving homes can be stressful enough for people, let alone our pets, who often have no idea what’s going on. Before even thinking about training your hamster, it’s best to let them settle in for a week or so. Ensure they have a good-sized cage and plenty of bedding and toys to keep themselves entertained as they get used to their new surroundings, smells, and routines. Also, ensure your hamster is away from too much noise or anything that could cause them stress - like other curious pets - and try not to disturb them during the day when they’re sleeping.

2. Ensure everything is prepared beforehand

Teaching your hamster to become tame takes a lot of time and patience, which is why it’s important not to rush any steps. Instead, get to know your new addition and what they seem to like - and not like. The key is to build trust with your hamster. If your pet appears to be comfortable in their surroundings, it could be time to get everything prepared for handling them. That means waiting until they have come out of their bed on their own, making sure they have eaten and had something to drink, and they don’t startle when you use a gentle voice around them. Don’t know what to say? Try reading a book to get them used to the sound.

3. Use treats to help coax your hamster

If there’s one thing that almost always helps when training pets, it’s their favorite treats. The time you allow them to settle in can be a great opportunity to learn the things they like the most. Have these ready for your first handling session, and start by offering them to your hamster through the bars of the cage. From there, you can think about opening the cage door and offering them from the edge, being careful not to put your hands into the cage and invade their space. Don’t be tempted to touch your pet. Instead, wait for your hamster to approach you.

4. Prepare to hold your hamster in your hands

Once your hamster has gotten used to you offering them food from your hand, try placing the treat on the palm of your hand and placing this flat on the floor of their cage. Now, your hamster needs to come to you for food and might even have to step on your hand to get their treat. Don’t force anything, but once your hamster is used to taking food from your hand, try moving it back a little so they have to walk onto your hand. Once they are comfortable, you can think about gently raising your hand off the floor. The chances are your hamster will initially jump off, meaning it’s important to keep your hand over the cage and something soft. Eventually, your hamster should realize your hands are safe and allow you to pick them up.

5. Allow your hamster to move freely

The best way to help your hamster become tame is to ensure they have the freedom to move. Start by picking them up in a cupped palm with your other hand gently placed over their back. When they’re out of the cage, ensure that your hamster is kept over something soft, like a pillow or your lap, just in case they fall or jump. Once they are comfortable, open your hands and let your hamster have a little explore by running from one hand to the other and even over your arms.

6. Prepare for things going wrong before they happen

There might be times we need to handle a hamster before they are tame. If that’s the case, ensure everything is in place before things go wrong, such as very gently herding your hamster into a cardboard tube blocked at one end or a cup to move them out of the cage and into somewhere new. Have a hamster who bites? Be sure to wear protective gloves and know that when they do bite, it’s nothing malicious and is most likely because they feel threatened. Never shout or discipline your hamster for biting; simply put them back safely.

How long it takes to train your hamster to help them become tame depends on the hamster, with some taking weeks and others taking months. Whatever the case, the end result is worth it.