general and taming

Question
Hi tammy,
I've gotten some advice on how to start taming my panda bear hamster. It's going pretty well, it's a lot less jumpy than it was. I've started putting my hamster in the exercise ball everyday, which it seems to really enjoy. What is the longest I should allow the hamster to stay in the ball for?
Also, I am trying to get it to get used to being held. How long should I try holding it for? I think I am more afraid of the hamster than it is of me so I generally don't hold it for more than like a minute before puttin it in the ball. Finally, what's the best way to hold the hamster?
Thanks!
-Donna

Answer
Hi Donna,

thanks for your question.

Your 'Panda Bear' hamster is actually a black and white Syrian Hamster.

Syrian Hamsters are fairly easy to tame and will become very friendly with regular handling.

I can understand why you are frightened of it as they can bite but the more you hold it the better it will become.  Try to be firm and confident when holding it, as the hamster will detect that you are afraid of it.

Try sitting on the floor and letting it wander over you, it will get used to your smell and touch without you having to worry about it falling from your hands.  Try giving it treats when it has been held for a while and it will associate you with treats!  but be careful your hands dont smell of the treats as it might accidently nibble you!

Your hamster should be fine it its ball for about 30 - 40 minutes at a time as long as you always watch him.  But remember that the longer he is in there,the more likely he will use it as a toilet - and you don't want that!  He will probably like to go in there twice or three times a day.

The best way to hold a syrian is to scoop him up with both hands - one in front and one behind, but remember to always talk to him before trying to pick him up just so he knows you are there so you dont startle him.

Hope i have been helpful, please let me know if you need any more help.

Regards,

Tammy