The Rex Rabbit, originating in France in 1919, is famous for its plush, velvety fur resulting from a unique gene mutation. Weighing between 7.5-10.5 pounds, they possess broad heads, strong legs, and upright ears. Known for their docile and friendly temperament, Rex Rabbits make excellent pets for families and individuals. Proper care includes spacious housing, a balanced diet of high-quality hay, fresh vegetables, and pellets, along with enrichment activities. Recognized in 16 color varieties by the ARBA, these rabbits thrive on human interaction and are suitable for first-time owners. Learn about their history and specific breeding practices for deeper insights.
What Is a Rex Rabbit?
A Rex rabbit is a medium-sized breed renowned for its plush, velvety fur, a result of a genetic mutation. Originating in France in 1919, these rabbits were selectively bred for their unique fur quality.
They possess a commercial body shape and typically weigh between 7.5 and 10.5 pounds. Recognized by ARBA, the breed comes in 16 color varieties.
Physical Characteristics
Renowned for their luxurious fur, Rex rabbits exhibit a range of distinctive physical characteristics that set them apart from other breeds. Medium-sized and weighing between 7.5-10.5 pounds, they have broad heads, upright ears, and strong legs.
Their velvety texture results from a unique gene mutation, creating a plush coat without guard hairs. The ARBA recognizes 16 color varieties of Rex rabbits.
Temperament Traits
Rex rabbits are celebrated for their docile, friendly, and patient temperament, making them ideal companions for families and individuals alike. These intelligent and affectionate rabbits are calm, sociable, and easy to train, displaying remarkable adaptability.
Their gentle nature and ease of care make them perfect for first-time owners. Rex rabbits thrive on human interaction, enjoying gentle handling and petting over being picked up.
Housing Requirements
To ensure the well-being of Rex rabbits, it is essential to provide them with around 12 square feet of cage space and 32 square feet of play space. Indoor housing should be draft-free and well-ventilated to prevent foot injuries.
Outdoor hutches must be predator-proof and equipped with a waterproof roof. Essential items include a hiding spot, chew toys, and a litter box for a stimulating environment.
Dietary Needs
In addition to providing appropriate housing, maintaining a balanced diet is fundamental to the health and well-being of Rex rabbits. A proper Rex rabbits diet includes high-quality hay, fresh vegetables, dark leafy greens, and pellets. Limited fruits and high-calcium greens should be given cautiously. Fresh water must always be available.
A well-rounded diet supports their growth, energy levels, and immune system.
Grooming Guide
Maintaining the plush fur of Rex rabbits involves minimal grooming, requiring brushing only once or twice a week. Their delicate fur lacks the longer guard hairs, necessitating gentle handling to preserve its velvety texture.
Essential grooming tasks include regular nail trimming and ear cleaning. Establishing a consistent grooming routine guarantees the health and appearance of Rex rabbits' coats, highlighting their unique rollback feature.
Health Issues
Rex rabbits are susceptible to several health issues, including sore hocks, gastrointestinal (GI) stasis, hairballs, and various parasites. Regular grooming and a high-fiber diet help prevent hairballs and GI stasis. Sore hocks can be mitigated with proper flooring. Prompt veterinary attention is essential for treating parasites like ear mites, Cheyletiella, and E. cuniculi.
| Health Issue | Prevention | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Sore hocks | Proper flooring, cleanliness | Veterinary care |
| GI stasis | High-fiber diet, grooming | Immediate vet attention |
| Parasites | Environmental disinfection | Prompt vet treatment |
History of the Breed
Originating in Louché-Pringé, France, around 1919, the Rex rabbit breed was meticulously developed from wild gray rabbits to achieve its distinct short, velvety fur.
First shown internationally in Paris in 1924, the breed was introduced to the United States the same year.
Recognized by the ARBA, Rex rabbits are known for their commercial-sized body, weighing between 5 and 10.5 pounds.
Breeding Practices
Selective breeding practices play an essential role in the development and maintenance of the Rex rabbit's unique fur quality and overall health. Emphasizing genetics and inheritance patterns, breeders focus on fur texture, color, and appearance.
Ethical breeding and professional guidance are imperative to producing healthy offspring and avoiding genetic disorders, ensuring that breeding practices support the breed's integrity and vitality.