Scruff-of-the-neck method

Approach the hamster calmly and let it be aware that you are there. The hand is slowly lowered into the cage and placed flat on the hamster's back. The hamster will naturally flatten itself against the bottom of the cage. Grasp the skin on either side of its neck and back between your thumb and fingers.

This method is safe and humane for hamsters because they have large cheek pouches. Therefore, there is a lot of loose skin around its neck and down its back. However, a good grasp on the hamster's skin is necessary because it can turn around its skin and bite.

A can or jar is slowly lowered into the cage and placed in front of the hamster so that it is facing inside the container. Hold the container in one hand and use the other hand to gently push the hamster's rump forward to encourage it into the container. Hamsters are naturally curious animal and likes to explore into new places.

This method is effective for first time handler especially children who are learning to handle them.

Use both hands together to form a cup and slowly lower it into the cage. Slide underneath the hamster and gently scoop it out. Some people might prefer to use one hand to slide under the animal and the other hand act as a cup to cover the top of it. In order to make sure that the hamster doesn't find a small hole to wiggle out and fall, both hands must be cupped tightly.

This method is good to use on gentle and tame hamsters.

One hand is slowly lowered into the cage above the hamster's back with the fingers directed toward the hamster's rump. Hold the animal around the middle with the thumb, little finger and ring finger. The middle finger and index finger support the animal by the rump while the palm rests on the back of its head. This allows a firm hold when lifting the hamster gently out of its cage. Hamster that feel secure and safe will seldom attempt to struggle and bite.

This method permits us to lift the hamster out of the cage without exposing our fingertips to a possible bite. However, it works best for adult hamsters only.