Q&A for How to Make Your Hamster Trust You

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Why does a hamster shake?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

A hamster may shake when anxious, excited, fearful, or cold. It can also be a sign that a hamster is unwell. If the hamster isn't eating or is drinking a lot, and shaking, then a vet check is advisable.

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Question

Do hamsters like it when you pet them?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Some do and some don't; it depends how used to being handled they are. Remember, hamsters are a prey species, so if they aren't used to people, then being touched is stressful. However, a tame hamster will love the attention given by a gentle owner.

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Question

How do you pick up a hamster without it biting you?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Ideally, take your time to get the hamster used to your hand. Only once the hamster is comfortable being stroked, should you try to pick them up. If it's essential to pick the hamster up before then, say to visit the vet, then drop a clean facecloth over the hamster and scoop them up in this. The cloth will protect your fingers from nips.

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Question

How do you pick up a hamster for the first time?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Carefully! The golden rule is not to startle the hamster, so don't wake them from sleep to be handled. Make sure your hands are clean and don't smell of food, or the hamster may nibble. Form a scoop with a hand and worm it under the hamster, to lift them in a cradle made by your hand.

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