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Old 10-16-2021, 06:49 PM  
Pebbles82
Hamster Antics
 
Join Date: Sep 2014
Posts: 23,533
Default Re: New hamster very scatty

Congratulations! She’s gorgeous. As you said, it’s very early days and she will be very skitty. They need two weeks settling in time in their cage, and during that time, no changes or glean outs ideally. After that she should be more confident and relaxed. Swapping the wheel is ok but I wouldn’t start moving things around or take anything out (unless it’s an emergency like a hazard item or something). Adding the odd new thing is usually accepted.

So basically- I think it’s too soon to start taming. It’s frustrating and patience needed but best to leave her alone for at least a few more days. Ideally for two weeks - unless she shows signs of wanting to come out of the cage after a few days (eg coming to the bars or door).

Best way to start taming is just talking to her through the bar’s gently- so she gets familiar with your voice and presence. Then move on to giving the odd treat through the bars.

Too much too soon could be quite stressful for her as she needs to acclimatise to her cage and surroundings. And maybe not too much excitement too soon.

They all vary of course but it does take at least 10 days of stability before they start being tameable really and act more normal and secure. Especially as she’s not a baby so has a new owner to get used to as well.

Some female hamsters can be big chewers and quite maverick as well. So it sounds like she’ll need a large cage at some point! Cardboard egg boxes are good for them to rip up. She’ll be looking for nesting material. Until she’s had chance to build a nest and get her bearings in the cage she will be very skitty.

Just time and patience x
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