How do I tame my new scared hamster that keeps buzzing and screaming?

Question

I just got a winter white Russian dwarf hamster March 5th. I've had him for about a week, but he always makes a buzzing/screaming noise and runs away any time I'm near. I'm starting to get impatient and wonder if i should get a new hamster instead. Will this behavior continue? I don't want to give him up. I like him already but his buzzing noises make me feel like I'm never going to be able to tame him, and he'll be terrified of me forever. It'd be great if I could get some advice. Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Male

Jessica Keay, DVM · Accepted Answer

I am sorry to hear about your frustration with your hamster! I Am sure you want to be able to tame him. Many hamsters can be tamed but it can require time and patience. The older a hamster is, the more difficult it may be to train them as they are already used to not having humans handle them. Try to only interact with your hamster when he is already awake. This may mean the night time since usually they are sleeping during the day time. If you wake him he is going to be upset already! Don't bother him if he is eating or drinking. Start off by just placing some treats into his cage and then setting your hand inside the cage, a little ways from the treats, so the hamster can get to the treats but doesn't have to touch you to do so. Leave your hand there for several minutes without moving it. Repeat this daily, until the hamster is coming and eating the treats. Once he is comfortable enough to eat the treats with your hand in the cage, start placing the treats on the tips of your fingers as you lay your hand flat in the cage, palm side up. Continue this daily, and hopefully with time he will take the treat from your hand, and if he does this consistently you can move the treat to the center of your palm. Once he will sit on your hand and take the treat, you can try gently picking him up. This may take quite some time, especially if he is older and not used to people. Best of luck to you!

How do I tame my new scared hamster that keeps buzzing and screaming?

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