How to Train Your Hamster to Jump Through a Hoop

Last Updated: October 5, 2022 Approved

You may not think your hamster can't do a really cool trick, but it can! Jumping through a hoop is a simple but very enjoyable little trick that will give both of you a chance for some quality bonding time.

Steps

1
Get a hula hoop that is hamster size. It could be a large ring covered in ribbon or a purpose-made one from the pet store. It must be large enough that the hamster can fit through it with ease but not so large the hamster isn't aware of going through an object.
2
Put your hamster on the floor, next to the hoop sitting flat on the floor. Get a treat or push your hamster a little over the hoop. Repeat 1-4 times.
- Put a treat on the opposite side from where your hamster is starting. This will encourage your hamster to step through the hoop and eat the treat.
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3
Start raising the hula hoop. Now that your hamster is comfortable with walking over the hoop, start raising the hoop and encouraging your hamster to walk through it. Keep the base of the hoop right on the floor, your hamster is still getting used to things. And keep a treat on the other side to encourage walking through the hoop.
4
Try getting your hamster a ball. This will help teach your hamster to stretch its body, which can be helpful when you're about to teach the hamster to start jumping up and through the hoop. Spend time rolling the ball away from the hamster and encouraging to chase after it, lunge for it, etc. Again, make use of treats.
5
Advance the stakes. Now it's time to teach your hamster to jump in the air. Raise the hoop just above the floor and hold it in place (or use something to hold it in place). Try giving your hamster treats or calling its name to get it to jump up and through the hoop. You'll need to keep practicing a lot, so have patience and be dedicated.
- Do not raise the hoop too high. Your hamster is delicate and shouldn't be landing from any great height. Keep the jump level very small and keep the landing soft, such as a nice soft carpet or a padded surface.

Community Q&A

Question

What if my hamster goes around the hoop instead of through it?

Aliah Carolynn

Community Answer

Try putting your hand through the hoop while holding a treat. Slowly pull your hand back if he starts to follow it. Give him the treat when he goes through.
Question

Can I keep 2 males together in the same cage?

Community Answer

No, because they will likely get territorial and fight.
Question

Why does my hamster crawl under the hoop to get the treat instead of jumping?

Hamster_Paws

Community Answer

This is normal behavior for most hamsters, just keep trying and do not give them the treat until they go through the hoop.

Warnings

Certain breeds of hamster can develop diabetes and require a restricted diet. This includes avoiding treats with sugars (such as corn syrup) and corn.

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Never raise the hula hoop too high or your hamster could be hurt. Be sensible and keep it at a low jump at all times.

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