Mumsnet Talk

We have a new hamster, he is utterly terrified of us (well me). He literally leaps into the air when I put my hand in the cage, if I try to pick him up he goes crazy. Any advice on how to tame the little critter?, it's going to be a miserable few years for all concerned otherwise! The boys are desperate to hold him, but I'm worried he'll die of fright!

He's new and finding you all a bit scary and strange. Spend time speaking to him and feeding him treats without picking him up at first so he can get used to you. He'll settle down soon but as with any new pet it takes time for them to feel happy and safe with their new surroundings and family.

Thanks FernieB. I've been looking up hamster treats, so i'll try him with those.

Hows it going with hammie?

I find apple and carrot are very popular treats to help!

I also give my hammies the choice to come out, so rather than chase it around the cage to begin with I put their ball in there with the lid off - they generally go straight over for a nose, then I lift it out with them inside, and put my hand next to the ball if that makes sense, so each step is their choice to do when they are ready

i get in the bath tub with mine - dry .

Let hammy run over you -DO NOT pick him up, just let him do what he wants - cover yourself with treats. Build up to letting him run on your hands, sit on your palm and work up from there. Put his bed in there with you too so he has a 'safe place' to run too.

Give him time - if he is new he will need a adjustment period to get used to new sights , sounds, routines etc.

Meal worms are hamster crack btw - live if you can stomach it but dried will do the trick!