I am considering getting a syrian hamster, and Im gonna caal him Fizzgig!

[Fizzgig]

I am considering getting a Syrian hamster, and I'm gonna call him Fizzgig!
I've been researching hamster care for a month now, and I was wondering if I could get any tips on introducing hamsters to their new home! Thanks!

[Wanna Hamster]

Where are you going to get your hamster? Never get them from pet stores, as they can be sick when you get them. Just make sure you have a good cage (over the minimum of 360sq in) a good wheel and plenty of toys and chews. Then, when you get your hamster, let him have a week or so to settle in to start taming. Can we get a little more info on what you are planning to do?

[cypher]

I wouldn't say never get a ham from a pet shop, many people don't actually have a choice & they aren't all unhealthy, hams from pet shops can make lovely pets, if you can go to a breeder or rescue or adopt then so much the better but you have to do what works best for you.

Plan well ahead before getting your ham, make sure you have a big enough cage & wheel & get all your other supplies ready.
When you bring your ham home, even if it appears friendly go slow & give it time to settle in, a couple of days at least of just quietly talking to it while it makes itself at home.
Put a tissue up your sleeve for a few hours to get your scent on it then put that in the cage to help your ham get used to you.
Once it's had time to settle in gradually begin to introduce your hand & a few treats into the cage but don't try to rush things, going slow & patiently gets you there a lot quicker in the end!

[Piebald]

Hi I read in your other thread you were thinking of a detolf-- that would be great! Presumably you've read all about it then so I wont lecture but if you have any questions please ask. One thing I might add to the suggestions above is try to get the pet shop or breeder to give you a bit of the substrate from the cage your hammie was in. You can put some of that in his new house and sprinkle a bit in the cage and it may help with the shock of the move. How close are you to ready for your ham?

[hammy2]

Welcome to the forum My Zoe is from a pet store and she's 26 months old tomorrow. Ikea Detolf cages are brilliant if you find the room to have one and can have different sections with wooden bendy bridges to create a nice habitat. If you decide on that make sure you have a secure wire mesh lid as Syrians are amazing escape artists

[Fizzgig]

Thanks sooooo much for your help! I will now look for breeders in my local area or perhaps an animal shelter! Thanks again!