A tiny hairless hamster has received the best gift ahead of winter - a little sweater to help it keep warm.

One-year-old Silky, who was born without fur except for short whiskers on its snout due to a genetic mutation, was taken to the Oregon Humane Society in the United States because its family was moving and could not keep caring for it.

An animal care technician at the society, Ms Selene Mejia, felt bad after seeing the hamster huddling in the corner of its cage. So she made a sweater for Silky that fits just right over its soft, sensitive skin.

Silky isn't about to let the sweater get worn out - it will be kept for special occasions, as the hamster spends most of its time in the buff in a warm, clean habitat.

"While she isn't fluffy like a normal hamster, she is just as cuddly and playful as any other hamster," another staff member at the society, Ms Diana Gabaldon, said.

She added that Silky must be kept in a heated environment, especially during winter. The hamster must also be given a higher-protein diet for warmth.

Silky was found to have an eye infection when it arrived at the society, but it's on the mend. All the better - it will be put up for adoption on Monday (Oct 24).