about holding

Question
Hi.  I just recently bought a long haired teddy bear hamster.  it is adorable.  i've been petting it, but having been able to pick it up.  It's been almost a week since i've had it.  I want to hold it, but i'm afriad it will bite or that i will drop it and it will escape.  Is there anything i can do to make the hamster more comfortable with me?

Answer
Hi Ammie,

Well, it's actually probably a good thing you haven't picked it up yet.  Many people pick their new hamsters up too soon after getting them.  There are some techniques for properly picking up a hamster so that it (and you) will feel comfortable.  First, cup your hands together and scoop him up slowly.  He should be comfortable enough with you to stay still.  Make sure you're sitting down when you do this (and that your door is closed).  Because the hamster is still so new, he *might* try to jump, so if you're sitting down you'll reduce the chances of his injuring himself.  Hamsters are rarely still, so you might want to let him walk from hand to hand.  Hold him for just a few minutes at a time, slowly building up to more time as you get more comfortable.
    As for biting, I've never really had a hamster that bites a lot.  As long as you never mishandle your hamster, he won't bite you.  However, he might try to nibble at your fingers - just to "taste" you.  Expect this so you won't jump and scare him.  

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

Kelly