Hamsters can be restrained relatively easily by cupping in both hands, followed by grasping by the scruff. If the animal appears aggressive, it should first be immobilised by covering its body with one hand, leaving the head exposed. The skin overlying the neck and thorax can then be drawn up between the handler’s fingers and thumb to provide a firm grip of the very extensive scruff. The animal can then be lifted clear of its cage and examined without risk of being bitten. At no stage of the examination procedure should the animal be allowed to run unrestrained on the examination table. Most hamsters appear unable to perceive the drop from the table edge to the floor and may fall and injure themselves.