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What is a Rex Rabbit?

Deborah Walker
Deborah Walker

The Rex rabbit is large breed that was discovered in the wild in 1919 in France. The rabbits have a round body, thick face and upright ears. Their bodies are covered with a dense coat of plush, velvety fur that may be any one of 16 colors recognized by the The National Rex Rabbit Club (NRRC) and the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). In warm climates, the Rex may be kept outdoors year round, but in cold climates it should be brought inside during the winter. Rex rabbits are easy to care for, very intelligent and friendly, and have few health issues.

The rabbit's upright ears are proportionate to the body size, and the Rex rabbit has a slightly wider head than other breeds. Females tend to be slightly larger than the males, but both sexes typically weigh 7.5-10.5 pounds (about 3.4-4.76 kilograms). One of the Rex rabbit's hallmark characteristics is the very thick, plush fur. The fur may be 0.5-0.9 inches (about 1.3-2.2 centimeters) long and tends to stand almost perpendicular to the body. Fur behind the ears may grow longer and has a tendency to curl. The toenails are the same color as the fur.

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The 16 colors recognized by NRRC and ARBA for show rabbits include black, blue, tri-color or broken, and Californian. Castor, chinchilla, chocolate, lilac, lynx, red, opal, sable, white, and seal are also accepted colors. Rex rabbits, however, come in many more colors.

In warm climates, the rabbit may live comfortably outside in a hutch all year. In cooler climates, the hutch should be moved inside a barn or other shelter, and in climates that are very cold, the rabbit does best living indoors. Outside shelters should not be placed in a location that receives direct sunlight all day, as Rex rabbits do not tolerate extremes of temperature. House rabbits, or rabbits kept indoors, may be litter box trained and tend to live longer than rabbits that are outside all of the time.

Commercial rabbit pellets and unlimited amounts of timothy hay, along with fresh vegetables, is the healthiest diet for a Rex. The pellets should be free of seeds or corn kernels. For each 5 pounds (about 2.2 kilograms), the rabbit may be fed 0.25 cups (about 7.09 grams) of rabbit pellets each day. As with any pet, the Rex rabbit must have access to clean, fresh water at all times.

The Rex has few health problems and usually lives to be five or six years old. Neutering male rabbits at about four months old prevents any aggression that may be seen in males as they become sexually mature. Females may be spayed at about the same age. Both neutering and spaying may lengthen the lives of Rex rabbits by as much as three to five years.

The rabbit's intelligence is one of the highest among rabbit breeds and makes it possible to train one to come when called, jump hurdles, hop on a leash, and do almost any trick a dog can do. Children who have been taught to handle a rabbit safely will find the friendliness of a Rex rabbit very appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Rex Rabbit?

A Rex Rabbit is a breed known for its unique, plush velvet-like fur, which is denser and shorter than that of most other rabbit breeds. Developed in France in the early 20th century, the Rex has a wide variety of colors and patterns, and its fur is highly prized for its texture and appearance.

How is the fur of a Rex Rabbit different from other rabbits?

The fur of a Rex Rabbit is distinctively different from other rabbits due to its short length, approximately 1.25 cm, and its density. Unlike other rabbits, the guard hairs and undercoat of a Rex are of the same length, giving it a uniform feel that's soft and plush to the touch, resembling velvet or velour.

What are the common colors and patterns found in Rex Rabbits?

Rex Rabbits come in a wide range of colors and patterns, including solid colors like black, blue, and white, as well as mixed patterns such as castor, chinchilla, and opal. The American Rabbit Breeders Association recognizes over 16 different color varieties, offering a diverse palette for enthusiasts.

What is the typical size and lifespan of a Rex Rabbit?

A Rex Rabbit typically weighs between 7.5 to 10.5 pounds, making it a medium-sized breed. With proper care, a Rex Rabbit can live for about 5 to 6 years, though some may live longer with exceptional care and attention to their health and environment.

Are Rex Rabbits good pets?

Rex Rabbits are known for their calm and friendly disposition, making them excellent pets. They are intelligent and can be litter-trained, which adds to their appeal as indoor companions. Their sociable nature means they often enjoy interaction with their human families and can form strong bonds with their owners.

What kind of care do Rex Rabbits require?

Rex Rabbits require a diet of high-quality hay, fresh vegetables, and a limited amount of pellets. They need regular grooming to maintain their coat, although less than long-haired breeds, and ample space to exercise. It's important to provide mental stimulation and social interaction to keep them happy and healthy.

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