Rex Rabbits

What You May Not Know about Rex Rabbits

Numerous breeds of rabbits are present around the world, but few that have as wide of a following as rex rabbits. As one of the most popular rabbit breeds, it can be beneficial to get to know the characteristics of this furry creature.

Some of the obvious features of this rabbit breed lie in its appearance. The most notable of the features is the fur; soft, velvety and plush. It is dense, yet short at around ½ long all over the body. A pleasure to hold and touch, the fur is an exquisite quality that is incomparable to that of most rabbits with the exception of chinchilla breeds. An elongated yet well proportioned body, short front and back legs, and medium upright ears are also typical trademarks of this rabbit breed. The rex is a medium sized breed; weighing in at around 8 or 9 pounds depending on the sex.

With the many varieties of rabbit breeds, they must be categorized in different classes especially for the purpose of show. Pet rabbits, show rabbits and livestock are the common classifications into which most rabbits are grouped. Some breeds, such as rex rabbits, serve dual purposes. As pets, the rexes are excellent choices due to their mild and cuddly nature. They are also considered to be very intelligent; perhaps the most intelligent of any of the rabbit species. Rexes are playful, and easily trained to use a litter box for indoor convenience. Children who have been trained in the treatment of small, fragile pets like rabbits will find this breed to be exceptionally enjoyable, as they can be taught tricks although may not be particularly motivated to perform them without a food treat.

Rex rabbits are also highly functional in the show arena. Specific features and characteristics must be prominent in show rabbits, such as proportional bodies with the heads and ears in harmony. Fur that is lusterless or coarse will disqualify the rabbit from competition, as will long legs, large ears, short body style or toenail incompatibility. The range of colors are all acceptable in show; sable, chocolate, lilac, blue and white are commonly seen. Faded colors, however, are cause for elimination, along with unbalanced patterns and absence of color on the nose, feet, ears or tail. For those breeders who are interested in raising rexes for show should refer to the show standards.

In addition to being great pets and show quality rabbits, rexes are also raised as livestock. The rex is considered to be a medium choice as a meat rabbit; gaining meat in its youth. When used for food, rabbits are classified in the same manner that chickens are: fryers are rabbits younger than 12 weeks, weighing in at less than 5 pounds; roasters are between 12 weeks and 6 months; stewers are any age over 6 months. The stewers, because of their more advanced age, will feature a tougher meat quality that the other two classifications. Rabbit meat is a high protein food that is low in fat as well as being a delicious alternative to beef or pork.

In regard to health, rex rabbits are a hardy breed. Like all rabbits, their frame is fragile yet few maladies afflict these furry creatures. They are prone to develop problems with their feet, and therefore should not be housed in cages with wire floors. Males can become aggressive when sexual maturity is reached, and females can develop cancer of the uterus when they are not neutered after four months of age.

No matter what the purpose behind owning a rabbit might be, a rex will fit the bill. It is easy to understand how this rabbit is such a popular choice, when it can be used as pet, show or livestock and achieve high marks at all.