Here we can see, “First 30 Days With Your Pet Hamster”
The first 30 days with your hamster are a period of significant transition for your small friend. However, there are practical things you can do in the lead-up to their arrival and during the first month to assist them in settling in more comfortably. So let’s go over the first 30 days, and expect what you can do to make your hamster feel at ease.
Table of Contents
Before Bringing Home Your Hamster
With some forethought, you’ll be prepared to care for your hamster correctly from the start.
First, make sure you have a suitable location in your home for your hamster. While you don’t want them to be alone in a room, it’s also crucial that their cage isn’t smacked in the thick of all the excitement. Because hamsters are nocturnal species, the day is primarily spent sleeping. It is beneficial for your hamster to be a family member, but excessive noise and activity can result in a stressed animal.
Ensure that you have purchased all necessary equipment and that it is fully set up before their arrival. You don’t want to postpone bringing your hamster into their new space or fiddle with things while they’re there on day one – they’ll be stressed enough as it is.
You’ll need a suitable-sized cage with all necessary supplies, including high-quality hamster food, bedding, nesting spaces, exercise areas, hamster toys, and safe chews.
Have you considered naming your hamster? While it is not required before bringing your new pet home, it is a fun activity to keep the kids interested in the process.
It would help if you also looked into local vets and pet-sitting services during this period.
The First Day
When you first bring your hamster home, the entire family will be anxious to connect and bond with them. However, it is best to leave your hamster alone for the first few days. Remember, they have just pulled away from their familiar surroundings and safe havens; therefore, they will most likely be scared.
It may be advisable to cover the cage with a thin sheet during this period. This will assist in keeping your hamster from becoming overstimulated.
After the first few days, you can approach the cage and speak calmly and gently to your hamster. This will assist your pet is adjusting to your presence.
If feasible, feed your hamster the same food they have been eating if you intend to change your hamster’s food gently and gradually. Starting them on the same meal they are used to will reduce the likelihood of stomach issues.
Day 10
Your hamster will most likely have made itself at home in its cage and will be more at ease with the surroundings and activities of your household at this point. Also, if you’ve been changing your hamster’s diet, they should be completely acclimated by now.
At this point, you can concentrate on handling and getting to know your hamster. Building trust is the first and most critical step in taming your hamster. Be patient, and don’t give up if it takes longer than planned for your hamster to come over to your hand or out of the cage that has been their haven.
Begin by placing your hand in the bottom of the cage, palm up, fingers relaxed. Allow your hamster to come over and inspect you. They may lightly nibble your fingers as part of their exploration–be careful not to yank your hand back or yell, as this may scare your hamster. Instead, consider giving them sweets from the palm of your hand to encourage them and help them form pleasant connections.
Your hamster will eventually recognize your hand as a kind presence in their habitat. When they start stepping on your hand, place both hands in the cage with your palms up. Then carefully scoop up your hamster to keep them in place. In the beginning, aim for a minute or two and keep handling sessions brief and positive. Return your hamster to its safe space if it squeals or becomes anxious.
Grabbing or forcing your hamster to come out would break the trust.
Day 30
By the 30th day, you’ll better understand your hamster’s routine, personality, and preferences. You will be able to gain your hamster’s trust with patience and diligence. You might even have a hamster that jumps into your palm! However, don’t be too disheartened if you haven’t yet accomplished this milestone. Keep in mind that hamsters are small and delicate animals. They have to be careful in the wild. Therefore it is only normal for them to be wary around you.
Now that you know your hamster a little better, you may choose activities and goodies that they will love. For example, maybe your hamster enjoys running a marathon on its wheel. Perhaps they enjoy rolling around the house in a hamster ball.
With a little planning and forethought, you can help make the first 30 days with your new hamster as stress-free and successful as possible. Remember that each hamster is unique, so it may take less or more time than stated above before your hamster feels at ease in its new surroundings. However, working with your hamster and being patient is well worth the reward of bonding with your new furry companion!
User Questions
How long does it take a hamster to adjust to its new environment?
It can take up to two weeks for a hamster to acclimate to its new environment. It is recommended to avoid handling them during this period. Never wake them up when they sleep and only enter the cage to deliver new food and water.
How can I assist my hamster in adjusting?
To gain your new hamster’s trust, place it in a warm, quiet area and allow it to adjust to its new surroundings for a few days. Then, slowly move over to the cage and stay there for a few moments, repeating as needed until the hamster explores its cage normally while you’re watching.
Can the hamster identify me?
Your hamster will not be able to tell you from anyone else at first. However, with good socialization, your hamster will not only recognize you but will also bond with you. It would help if you handled your hamster daily to preserve this attachment. You can’t, however, expect your hamster to bond with everyone.
Can hamsters perceive color?
Hamsters have poor eyesight, are nearsighted, and are colorblind. As a result, hamsters rely on scent to navigate their environment.
Are hamsters capable of giving love bites?
Hamsters will occasionally bite to show affection. On the other hand, love bites are not the same as violent bites. Examine how hard your hamster bites you to determine whether they bite out of affection or aggression.
Conclusion
I hope you found this helpful guide. If you have any questions or comments, don’t hesitate to use the form below.
