Help! I'm scared of Syrian Hamster bitting me:(

[bobbaham]

I haven't got much to add but am watching this thread with interest as my ham is very similar. She will take treats and will walk onto my hand if there's no other option (if I'm in the way!) but won't do it voluntarily or allow herself to be held. I'm wondering too whether she's just not the type. Let us know how you get on - I'm still trying!

[Thin Lizzy]

Originally Posted by bbbarker

So I tried again last night in his cage because he does seem more confident in his cage and isn't that bothered about coming out hat much, he comes out in his ball for half an hour but he's not that fussed which doesn't bother me too much because he's on his wheel a lot through the night so I know he's getting some exercise. He was taking treats from my fingers like he always has done and he was letting me stroke him but when I put my hand at in his cage with some treats on he just wasn't bothered he came close and had a sniff and walked off. I know patience is important when taming but should I just settle that he's not the kind of hamster that likes to be picked up?

Some hams just don't like being picked up but, don't give up. Twinkle was like that but now she loves being picked up.

[happy hamster 101]

That's OK, you don't sound pathetic, sometimes I wear gloves because my soap smells of bubblegum and I'm scared of being bitten, I'd advice you to wear gloves, and when it happens that you feel like you trust him more, wear one glove and try not to jump or scare him if he does nibble you a bit as he might think that going on your hand is threatening. When you are handling him fine like that its time to take the gloves of! Hope this helped, that's what I've done ( I really need to buy unscented soap ) good luck! XXX

[bbbarker]

I just thought I would let everyone following this thread know Bruno had to be pts, I was able to hold him for the first and last time which meant the world to me. He's at a better place now and although I miss him so much, I know I made the right decision.
Tibbles is doing even better day by day, we have bonded so well and have such a good relationship. I have gained complete confidence in her now and can't believe I waited so long to hold her.
If anyone is in the same situation as I was my advice would be, yes the unknown of being bitten is scary but even if it did happen (which it shouldn't if you are taking things at a good pace) it doesn't hurt that much. Put your fear aside and even if you get a couple of bites it's worth it in the end. Take a deep breath and just do it! Because after all the taming process, it's so rewarding. I hope this thread helped some people and thank you to everyone who gave helpful advice and lovely words xx