Hairless hamster given a jumper to help her survive winter

Silky, the hairless hamster, looks very happy with her new jumper. Credit: Oregon Humane Society

A hairless hamster has received its Christmas present early in the form of a new jumper which should help it survive the winter.

One-year-old Silky was born without fur due to a genetic mutation.

She was handed into the Oregon Humane Society when her family moved and could no longer take care of her.

A staff member at the animal organisation crocheted the perfectly fitted top for the hamster when she saw her huddled in a corner of her cage, presumably trying to keep warm.

Silky is completely hairless apart from some whiskers on her nose. Credit: Oregon Humane Society

Most of the time Silky, who does have short, curly whiskers on her nose, will be kept in her natural state but the Society said she will wear the sweater on "special occasions".

Silky is currently being treated for an eye infection but is expected to be up for adoption within the next few days.

Any new owner will have to make sure that she is kept warm at all times.