Just another biting hamster.

Question
Hello. I've had my hamster for around 7 months, and he is very friendly and energetic. Overall, very healthy. But whenever I try to handle him, he grows quite curious and begins sniffing and sometimes biting my thumb. He does this to anyone who handles him. He doesn't appear to be aggressive. Overly curious, maybe? And is there any way I can dissuade him from doing so?

Thanks.  

Answer
Hi Courtney,

Yes, it sounds like he's just curious, not aggressive.  If you want to stop the biting, there's a product sold in pet stores called Bitter Lime Spray (or Gel).  It's marketed towards ferrets, but it's safe for all small animals.  Before you handle your hamster, spray or rub it on your fingers.  If your hamster bites you, he'll taste the bitter lime, and he won't want to bite you again.  (You may have to repeat the process a few times.)

Have a great day!

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

Kelly