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Why is my hamster biting me? How can I stop an aggressive hamster?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Hamster | Female | unspayed

My hamster keeps wanting to bite me. I tried taming it as seen on YouTube videos but they don't seem to work. I've tried asking hamster owners too but it doesn't seem to work either. What should I do? Does she have some sort of disorder? I've tried using a glove and placing a treat in my palm but she went toward my finger instead and managed to bite me through it.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on December 26th, 2018

Thanks for reaching out about Princess and including photos. Hamsters can be touch, socially. Continued de-sensitization might help, but also by looking at the photos, your access point seems to always be from above. A large human hand coming down to grab from above can be scary. If you use a cup to scoop her up (gently) and then place her on a flat surface, is she still aggressive? Maybe she is defensive of her enclosure, and might be more timid when out. Lastly, having her spayed might decrease aggressive, but a big surgical procedure. Good luck.

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 17th, 2018

    Whenever there is a drastic change in behavior, an underlying medical problem needs to be ruled out before you can just assume it is a behavioral issue. I suggest you get Cookie to a vet for an exam to make sure there is nothing medically wrong with her that is causing the issue. Use a vet that is used to treating hamsters like this one: ( https://vcahospitals.com/alameda-east/specialty/services/exotic-animal-medicine ) Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on February 10th, 2019

    Any sudden change in behavior should be addressed by your veterinarian. Frequently, illness or injury are the cause. Look Princess over for any obvious signs of injury. Try not to get bitten again. Survey the area in and around the cage for any negative stimuli. This may include loud noises, strong vibrations, bright light, cold drafts or high traffic. Reduce or eliminate any if found. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling her, especially if you have other pets. Their scent may cause her stress. Rub some of her bedding in your hands to get her scent onto you and approach slowly. If she stresses out, stop and try again later. Move slowly and talk softly around her. Offer small treats and allow her to come up to you. Be patient and consistent. It may take time for her to become comfortable with you again.

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