Grommits new cage

[grommit217]

I think it went well for your first attempt. Grommit took the food from you and you managed to get the knot out of his hair. He probably did not like his hair being cut as he is not used to it but he is still trusting you as he took the food. Do not be hard on yourself. You had to get the knot out of his hair for his well being. I think you did the right thing in putting Grommit back in his cage when he went into his tube. Sounds like he is learning how to communicate to you and you are learning what his body language means.

Maybe Grommit would feel more comfortable if his playpen is a little more cluttered? That way he has more hidey places. Just an idea and I may be wrong but thought I would mention it.

So if we sit in it? Or should we buy more for it so we're not disturbing his cage. Thanks for the kind words, they mean alot. I think we're trying to do it so right, we worry. It does seem like he's associating the tube as his way to travel out and back to the cage. X

 

[RainbowBrite]

Oh sorry, you are leaving a space for you to sit in. Now I understand. I thought that was the playpen set up and you watched him in it. You are doing great! You have put so much work into ensuring you have everything perfect for him.

Are the items in his playpen the same items from his cage? If so, I would just use cardboard boxes and tunnels in his playpen and leave his cage items in his cage. I do not know if you have seen the cardboard creation thread on here? You may get a few tips.

DIY thread - show us your creations

www.thehamsterforum.com

I have not had a Syrian hamster but I am sure other members who have will have more taming advice.

 

[grommit217]

We've only sat in it once, he climbed onto me. Haven't done it since as wasn't sure it was the right thing to do. I have made him a hide out, I will get him some more for playpen time...thankyou for all your help, I'd be lost without everyone x

 

[RainbowBrite]

It is so hard to know what is right but you are doing an amazing job with Grommit. It is lovely you made him a hide out.

 

[grommit217]

There's lots more to learn. He seems happy, I just want to love him more

 

[RainbowBrite]

If you ever have any spare time you can always just browse the forum for ideas and tips. That is what I do.

 

[grommit217]

OK I will, thanks again

 

[Maz]

You could try putting a dig box with treats in there maybe. Just Amazon box or shoe box with torn up strips of cardboard in and hide a few pumpkin seeds near the top and partly under the cardboard. He might enjoy digging in that and finding the treats. Things like that distract them a bit from being nervous
Sitting in with him is a good idea as well - then you’re more on his level and he can climb over you and get used to you.

 

[grommit217]

I'll get him a box sorted out...ahh good. I want to be climbed onto

 

[elusive]

You & Grommit are doing great!
I think sitting in the playpen with them & letting them climb on you is the best way to get them used to you & to begin handling them.

 

[grommit217]

He's lived climbing up us , but not in us yet.

I have a dilemma. Next week I have to go away locally for 4 nights. My sister says she'll have him but I know he'll only get fed...or do I take his whole set up with me, and take him too. Which is kindest to Grommit?. I'm worried he'll be depressed and forget what we've started. Help

 

[Maz]

Is it possible to leave him at home in his cage and your sister come in once a day in the evening to feed him? That's all that's needed really. They do much better if left in their familiar environment with a pet sitter coming in. Then he'll be pleased to see you when you get back.

 

[elusive]

Four days isn’t long although I’m sure it will seem it but Grommit won’t forget, they can be a bit sulky for a day or two if you go away but soon get over it.
I agree with Maz, if possible it would be better to leave him at home & have someone look in.

 

[grommit217]

Is it possible to leave him at home in his cage and your sister come in once a day in the evening to feed him? That's all that's needed really. They do much better if left in their familiar environment with a pet sitter coming in. Then he'll be pleased to see you when you get back.

OK I'll ask someone. Wasn't sure what was best to do for him. That's why I asked the experts xx

 

[grommit217]

My son is coming over every evening to feed Grommitt

 

[RainbowBrite]

That is a great idea.

 

[elusive]

That’s good, I’m sure Grommit will be fine for a few days with your son checking in on him.

 

[Zara]

When we went away over the weekend, 3 nights we had my Mum pop in and feed Hams, she would sit and have a chat with him, then head home. He was always pretty excited when we got back. I’m sure Grommit will be fine.

 

[Jain]

My son is coming over every evening to feed Grommitt

Pleased you have sorted something out I'm sure Grommit will be fine especially as he will know the familiar smell of your son " sorry that didn't sound quite right but sure you know what I mean "

 

[grommit217]

Pleased you have sorted something out I'm sure Grommit will be fine especially as he will know the familiar smell of your son " sorry that didn't sound quite right but sure you know what I mean "

He'll be alot happier at home so I'll be happy x