Flinching hamster, taming methods?

[Pixie The Hammy]

Hi all, I've had my Syrian for almost 2 weeks now, and we're still working on taming. After around 1 week had past, I tried offering a treat with my hand but she did not want to come near me at all, so I have left her be since then as I thought a bit more time exploring would be nice.

Yesterday, I put my hand in her enclosure to start getting her used to that, but she was so flinchy around me, she was jumping and ended up hiding.

I'm really not sure if I should give her a bit more time to get used to her surroundings, or if I should try a different 'taming' method? Any advice appreciated! <3

[LunaTheHamster1]

sounds like she needs more time, all hamsters are different. work at her speed and i am sure you will get there. Took me 6 weeks with my boy syrian Twinkle, took a couple of days with 2 of my female syrians.

[Ria P]

Many hamsters need a good two weeks just to settle in.

I think you started taming far too soon and need to go by your hamster's pace not yours.

My advice would be to go back to the beginning, stock up on patience, give her a rest for a few days and just talk to her softly so she gets used to your voice. You could give her some torn up tissue with your scent on it and then move on to offering her treats with your fingers.

Personally, i don't put my hand in their cage because it is their territory and do taming exercises outside the cage but you need to do whatever works best for your hamster and what you feel comfortable with.

[Linda 123]

Hi, my Syrian Hazel was a nervous little thing at first, and it took a good couple of months before she was really comfortable with socialising. You will get there, so don't worry, it will just take a bit longer. Talk softly to her a lot, so that she knows your voice, and she will soon recognise you. Especially if you are the bringer of yummy treats!