Bits

Question
My hamster bits my finger too much is this normal?

Answer
Hi Jose,

Yes, it's pretty common for hamsters to bite fingers.  Usually, after taming, the biting stops however.  There are a couple things you can do to make your hamster stop biting your fingers.  One, you can wear gloves when you handle your hamster.  Wear the gloves until your hamster stops biting your fingers.  Two, you can buy a product called "Bitter Lime Spray (or Gel)," which is sold at pet stores.  It's marketed for ferrets, but it's safe for all small animals.  Simply spray or rub the bitter lime onto your fingers before you handle your hamster.  Your hamster will taste the bitter lime, and he won't want to bite your fingers.  Use the bitter lime until you're confident he won't bite your fingers.

Also, make sure you're gentle with your hamster, and you don't pick him up abruptly.  Both of these things will cause a hamster to bite you.

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

Kelly