Rex Rabbit | Luxurious Fur & Friendly Rabbit Breed
The Rex rabbit is a breed of rabbit with a unique plush, velvety fur and a friendly nature. Although first bred for their beautiful fur, this rabbit breed has gained popularity as a pet and show rabbit, largely on account of their sweet nature and unusual appearance. Medium sized well proportioned bodies, broad heads, and upright ears are what makes them stand out. Unlike most other rabbit breeds, their fur does not have long guard hairs, and as a result has an exceptionally soft texture.
The Rex rabbit is excellent in raising and has pretty much anything they like, including your money if they think they can get away with it. They are intelligent, sociable, and not difficult to deal with and are therefore ideal pets in the background. Their playful, yet gentle disposition makes them ideal companions and they do best in a loving, well-kept environment. This article covers the Rex rabbit’s history, classification, characteristics, care requirements and suitability as a pet.
History of Rex Rabbit Breeds
The Rex rabbit is a mutation of a litter of wild rabbits found in France in 1919, the result of which is the uniquely plush fur. French breeders have recognized the potential for a new breed and selectively bred the Rex rabbit with a dense, velvety coat. The breed was officially introduced to the world at the Paris International Rabbit Show in 1924 and won immediate attention.
These rabbits were soon exported to the United States and other countries and quickly became a popular breed for fur production and exhibitions. They were popular as pets because their affectionate and docile nature became apparent over time. This rabbit breed is still a well loved breed for its unique coat, charming personality, and it is suitable as a pet or show animal today.
Classification of Rex Rabbits
By Purpose
The Rex rabbits were originally bred for their luxurious fur and were being highly valued in the fur trade for their dense, plush coats. But as interest in fur farming fell and people became more aware of their affectionate nature, they became more popular as pets and show animals. These rabbits are judged in rabbit exhibitions on the basis of their coat quality, body shape and temperament. Because of their friendly and intelligent nature, they are good companions, and also used in therapy settings because of their gentle disposition. Although they still have their historical association with fur production, they are now more valued as household pets and show rabbits.
By Size
Medium sized breed, Rex rabbit standard weight between 7.5 to 10.5 pounds. Their body is compact with a well muscled body and broad head with upright ears proportionate to their size. Legs are strong with a well balanced look, giving them an elegant but sturdy look. These rabbits are not huge hamsters, but they still need more spacious accommodation compared to other breeds, and they also need tasks to do. Mini Rex also comes in a variation, which is smaller in size with a weight ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 pounds but still has the signature plush coat. Both variations have the same affectionate and care requirements and come in both sizes.
Most Popular Rex Rabbit Characteristics
Rex rabbits are most known for their short, dense, velvety coat. Unlike other rabbits, their fur is upright rather than lying flat, making them soft and plump. There are many colors of them such as black, blue, chocolate, lilac, red and broken patterns. In addition to their luxurious coat, they have large expressive eyes and a friendly disposition. Rex rabbits are known to be calm and playful which makes them great pets for families and people.
They are intelligent creatures, not just in thought but also in action; they can be trained to use a litter box, follow simple commands and enjoy some ‘interactive’ playtime. Because of their sociable nature, they need human interaction and do well in homes where they are well loved and have regular companionship.
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Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rex Rabbit
As a Rex rabbit owner knows, you should not adopt one without first having taken into account several factors. The first is that their coat does not mat easily so it doesn’t need much grooming, but their coat is also delicate and should be brushed rarely. Secondly, their diet should be made of high quality hay, fresh vegetables, and pellets to keep their digestive health.
They also require fresh water at all times. Third, Rex rabbits are active and need lots of space to exercise and roam indoors or in a secure outdoor enclosure. Also, they are a social breed that needs regular interaction and companionship to be happy. Finally, like other rabbit breeds, they need regular veterinarian care to keep them healthy and avoid conditions which include dental problems and obesity. A Rex rabbit can be a healthy and affectionate companion provided proper care is given.
Tips for Responsible Rex Rabbit Ownership
Rex rabbits are demanding and need proper care. Indoors in a large enclosure, or outdoors in a secure hutch, they need to be provided with a spacious and safe living environment. Their diet should be balanced with hay as the main component and fresh vegetables and quality pellets. There always has to be fresh water. Their coat does not require much grooming but it is important to check their skin for anything that might be irritating.
This is good because it is crucial to allow them supervised free roam time in a secure area. They are social animals, so they will not fare well when left alone for long periods and should have human interaction or another rabbit companion. You should also ensure that they remain healthy by seeing the routine at the vet. Rex rabbits, like most, can live from 7 to 9 years if taken care of properly and provide joy and companionship to his owner.
Fun Facts About Rex Rabbits
- The Rex Rabbit’s velvety fur comes from a genetic mutation that removes the long guard hairs found in most rabbit coats.
- This breed was developed through selective breeding from a wild rabbit litter discovered in France in 1919.
- Rex Rabbits are known for their vibrant colors and are among the most visually diverse rabbit breeds.
- They are highly intelligent and can be trained to use a litter box, learn tricks, and respond to their name.
- The Mini Rex is a smaller variation of the breed that shares the same luxurious, plush fur.
FAQs on Rex Rabbits
Conclusion
Rex rabbit is a well known breed of rabbits known for its soft, luxurious fur and friendly personality. Originally bred as fur producing animals, they have become a popular pet or show animal because of their affectionate and intelligent nature. Their coat requires very little grooming and they are small enough to live in almost any environment. In homes they are properly cared for, attended to, and given companionship, they thrive. If Rex is on a balanced diet, getting plenty of exercise and having a regular vet check up, Rex rabbits can be long lived pets. But their charming demeanor and plush coat make them a wonderful addition to any household that is willing to meet their needs.