The Mini Rex rabbit breed was developed by Monna Berryhill in 1984 by combining a Dwarf Rex and a lynx Rex. Her final product was accepted into the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in 1988, making them one of the newest breeds in the organization. The breed is a smaller version of the Standard Rex, reaching only 4.5 pounds. Like the Standard Rex, they are raised as pets and for show due to their plush, velvety coats. However, unlike the Standard, they are rarely used for pelts or meat due to their small size. They do have the benefit of a longer lifespan than their larger cousins, with an average of eight to twelve years.
The Rex Mutation
Both the Standard and Mini Rex are known for their unusually plush fur. While rabbits usually have a dual coat, containing an undercoat and guard hairs, the distinct feel of a Rex rabbit is due to a mutation in which the guard hairs are missing. This leaves only the softer undercoat, resulting in a dense, velvety feel. Unlike many rabbit fur types, Rex coats will stay in position, no matter which way the rabbit is stroked.
Showing the Mini Rex
The Mini Rex should present at show as well-rounded, with a thick hindquarter and midsection, wide shoulders and a short, thick neck. The ears should also be thick and no more than 3.5 inches long. Feet should be proportional – not too long – and parallel with each other. The bone structure should be reasonably fine, but the rabbit should be well-fleshed. Rabbits need to be healthy, well-groomed and be alert.
As with the Standard Rex, the coat is worth a large percentage of the points in the show ring, with the coat and color being worth fifty-five out of the full hundred points. Rabbits in molt – a stage often called “blowing their coat” are generally not considered desirable at judging. Fur needs to be dense and between 1/2 and 7/8 inch long. There are twenty-two accepted colors for the Mini Rex when showing under ARBA standards.
How to Care for a Mini Rex
Mini Rex rabbits have the normal health issues found in most rabbits, including respiratory issues, GI stasis and uterine cancer in unspayed females. The risk of cancer can be significantly reduced by spaying the rabbit. In addition, the unusual texture of their fur can cause an increased risk of injury in the hocks, so proper cage flooring is extra important when housing Mini Rex rabbits.
When buying cages, a small rabbit’s housing should be no less than thirty inches by thirty inches per rabbit. Rabbits are also social animals, so considering a cage that will hold multiple rabbits can help with their well-being. Cage size should also be increased if breeding rabbits, in order to provide space for their young.
The diet for the Mini Rex should be mostly made up of high-quality hay. This provides not only nutrition, but helps wear their teeth down to prevent dental issues. Limited amounts of fresh greens also increase healthy nutrition. Importantly, while many other rabbit breeds require pellets as a substantial part of their diet, Mini Rex should only have them as treats. A constant supply of fresh water also provides hydration and keeps their digestive system working appropriately.
A Manageable & Calm Rabbit
The Mini Rex is a small breed like the Mini Lop that is enjoyed by many due to its manageable size, calm demeanor and unusual fur. While personalities vary between individual rabbits in this breed, they are often pleasant pets and a recommended choice for seniors or others looking for an undemanding animal companion. However, being small can also make them a fragile pet around dogs, cats and young children. Still, with proper attention and care, they are a popular choice with many people interested in raising rabbits.
This story about the mini rex rabbit was written for Hobby Farms magazine. Click here to subscribe.
