Holding Your Dwarf Hamster the Correct Way
An important part of taming your hamster is learning how to hold him so that he is safe. When he feels secure in your hands, you will be well on your way to having the fun and entertaining pet that you have always wanted!
Before you try to hold your hamster, there’s something very important you must know about your dwarf hamster. He’s near-sighted. That’s right. He has a very limited view of the world.
Knowing this dictates in large degree how to approach this small, furry animal. Only handle your hamster when you’re sitting down. And always allow your friend to smell and actually see your hands before you pick him up.
Then once you do have him in your hands, hold him firmly there. Don’t allow him to squirm or jump out of your hands. The best method for this is to cup both of your hands around the animal, leaving only a tiny hole for him to poke his head through. In this way, you have a good, firm grasp on him, but he can still see what’s happening around him.
And since your hands are cupped around him, he should feel pretty safe as well. But be careful with this technique. It’s far too easy to squeeze that little guy too hard. So make sure that you leave enough room between your hands. After a few trial rounds you’ll know exactly how to do it.
You can also use this method when you carry the hamster across the room or when you pick him up from the ground. Once you get used to holding him, allow him to run from one hand to another. Even let him run across your arms.
Now that you’ve mastered the “two-handed-cupped approach” to handling your new friend, you’re ready to try another technique. Try picking up your hamster using only one hand.
Carefully – and only after your pet has smelled you and seen your hand – curl your fingers around his cute, little body. Now gently lift him, bearing in mind not to squeeze him. Especially be careful not to squeeze him below his forelegs. He’ll have one heck of a time breathing if you do this.
This is great method if you plan to carry him only short distances but it’s not a safe or a secure method. If you plan on carrying him for any length of time or for long distances, use two hands!
