holding hamsters

Question
Hi,
I have a Syrian hamster that will let me pet it and eats from my hand.  There is only one problem. My friend tried to pick it up and it bit her. I do not know the way to hold my hands when trying to pick it up or how to get it tame enough to let me. Please help. Thanks!

Answer
Hi Angela

Sorry to hear that your hamster bit your friend.

In the wild these little creatures are preyed upon a lot and therefore they can get nervous very easily and react if they think they are being attacked.  I have found that the best way to handle a hamster (especially in the early days/weeks) is to rub some of their bedding onto my hands - this way their scent is on me, rather than me smelling of soap or food.  Then place a hand each side of them and quickly 'scoop' them up.  Immediately transfer them onto clothing.  Some hamsters get really freaked out if they walk on skin.  If you try this it might help- let him walk on your clothing (it is easier to sit down when doing this).  Don't grab at him or hold him tightly - if he starts to wander off then gently slide a hand under him and bring him back.

If you try this for a few minutes, then return him to his cage.  He will soon see that it is safe and as hamsters are very nosey he will probably want to come out again.  

Always be careful if you let a friend handle him as they will approach him very differently and might startle him whereas he will start to get used to you and recognise you.

I have found that most hamsters want to be tame - it sometimes takes a little longer with some of them to win their confidence and make them feel safe - so it is worth persevering with this.

I hope this helps and that he calms down a little.

Regards
Sheila