Need help with handling new hamster

[thorhamsterson]

I recently adopted a 6-month-old hamster named Vera. She's such a sweet girl, but it's been a day now since I got her, and she is scared, to say the least. I do understand this, she hasn't travelled before, and she's in a new environment, but I don't really know when I should try and handle her without her biting me.

The woman said she's the sweetest and calmest hammy ever, and I'd love to see her personality myself. So, how can I gain her trust, and when?

[AmityvilleHams]

You honestly should give her time to settle in.A day is very little time,especially for a rescue hamster!For now just be calm and patient and take it one tiny hamster paw sized step at a time

Start with just speaking in a soft tone to her and giving her toilet paper that you have had next to your skin(such as in your shirt)all day.These things are really important to gradually get her used to your presence without making things happen so immediately and completely against her own will.

Another idea once she's settled in more and you've been doing the toilet paper and talking to her is to offer treats when she is awake.This could be a piece of her usual food mix,or you could offer something like the Rosewood treats(all natural but check elsewhere to find the ingredients and make sure you choose ones that are entirely safe as some are a bit risky for hamsters)or even fresh fruits and vegetables.There should be a list if you have a search on the forum though,to save space here

One of the most important things to remember is that while you may be excited to handle your new hamster,she does need time to settle in and adjust properly for the sake of her health and to prevent potential future behavior problems.I think other than that just be patient and kind and offer lots of healthy treats

[cypher]

If she was a sweet & calm ham before then she will probably settle in fairly quickly but it is a big & scary change for her right now.
As AmityvilleHams says give her time, talk to her quietly & do the tissue trick, fresh tissue each day for as long as need be, don't rush things, just go slow & steady.