How to Tame an Adult Hamster

While hamsters socialized with humans from a young age are friendlier and become easy to handle more quickly, it is still possible to socialize an adult hamster. An adult hamster that is not used to humans may be scared or nippy at first, but with time and patience, it is possible to make the hamster more comfortable with you and to put it at ease when it is being held.

Things You'll Need

  • Anti-bacerial soap
  • Hamster treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash your hands with anti-bacterial soal before (and after) handling your hamster. If your hands happen to smell like food, your hamster might take a nip at your fingers.

    • 2

      Reach your hand into the hamster's cage and leave it there for short periods of time. Allow the hamster to sniff around your hand when your hand is being still. This gets the adult hamster used to your scent.

    • 3

      Stroke the hamster on its back with the back of your finger. Avoid touching the hanster's head.

    • 4

      Repeat these actions over the course of a few days or even as long as a week, until the hamster is comfortable with your presence.

    • 5

      Offer the hamster a hamster treat from your fingers. If the hamster is unwilling to approach, lay the treat down and pull your hand back. Over time, the hamster will come closer and closer for the treat until it will eat from your hand.

    • 6

      Pick the adult hamster up gently by wrapping your fingers around its middle and supporting its weight completely.

    • 7

      Lift it slowly while holding it firmly, as adult hamsters may be inclined to run if they are startled.

    • 8

      Hold the hamster for only a few moments before returning it to the cage.

    • 9

      Lengthen the amount of time that you hold the hamster until it is comfortable in your grasp.