Is it Normal for Hamsters to Bite?

It is normal for pet hamsters to bite, no matter what species of pet hamster you have. However, you can take some precautions to greatly reduce the chances of getting bitten by a pet hamster.

  1. Explanation

    • Hamsters have poor eyesight. Because they are prey animals, anything approaching or touching them may be trying to kill and eat them, so hamsters will bite to protect themselves.

    Significance

    • In their book "Training Your Pet Hamster," authors Gerry Buscis and Barbara Somerville suggest that, in order to reduce hamster bites, hamsters should only be handled when they are awake and active. A sleeping hamster will bite if it's suddenly woken up.

    Remedy

    • Tapping the side of the cage when the hamster is awake can help signal to the hamster that you are going to touch it. Alternatively, you can place your hand on the cage bedding and pet the hamster only after she crawls into the palm of your hand or sniffs it.

    Warning

    • Always wash your hands before handling a pet hamster. If the hamster smells any food on your fingers, it may mistake the fingers for food and take a bite.

    Considerations

    • Hamsters that suddenly begin biting after weeks or months of not biting may be ill and in pain, which is causing them to bite.