**Rex rabbit bunnies, often hailed as the “king of rabbits,” are renowned for their incredibly soft fur, friendly demeanor, and adorable appearance. These delightful creatures, with their unique velvety coats, have captured hearts worldwide, making them a popular choice for both pet owners and breeders. If you're considering adding a furry friend to your family, understanding the special qualities of Rex rabbits is key to a happy and healthy companionship.** Originating in France in the early 1900s, Rex rabbits stand out from other breeds due to a fascinating genetic mutation that gives them their distinctive plush fur. Their gentle temperament and engaging personalities make them wonderful pets for those prepared to meet their specific needs. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about these charming bunnies, from their rich history to their daily care, ensuring you're well-equipped to become a savvy and responsible Rex owner. **Table of Contents** * [The Allure of Rex Rabbit Bunnies: Why They're So Special](#the-allure-of-rex-rabbit-bunnies-why-theyre-so-special) * [A Glimpse into History: The Origin of Rex Rabbit Bunnies](#a-glimpse-into-history-the-origin-of-rex-rabbit-bunnies) * [Understanding the Rex Rabbit: Physical Characteristics & Lifespan](#understanding-the-rex-rabbit-physical-characteristics--lifespan) * [Temperament and Behavior: The Heart of Rex Rabbit Bunnies](#temperament-and-behavior-the-heart-of-rex-rabbit-bunnies) * [Social Butterflies: Rex Rabbits and Other Pets](#social-butterflies-rex-rabbits-and-other-pets) * [Rex Rabbits and Children: A Perfect Match?](#rex-rabbits-and-children-a-perfect-match) * [Caring for Your Rex Rabbit Bunny: A Commitment to Well-being](#caring-for-your-rex-rabbit-bunny-a-commitment-to-well-being) * [Grooming Your Velvety Companion](#grooming-your-velvety-companion) * [Health and Wellness: Keeping Your Rex Rabbit Thriving](#health-and-wellness-keeping-your-rex-rabbit-thriving) * [Rex Rabbit Bunnies in the Spotlight: Show, Fur, and Meat](#rex-rabbit-bunnies-in-the-spotlight-show-fur-and-meat) * [Finding Your Perfect Rex Rabbit Bunny: Adoption & Breeders](#finding-your-perfect-rex-rabbit-bunny-adoption--breeders) * [Becoming a Savvy Rex Owner: Your Hopping Journey Begins](#becoming-a-savvy-rex-owner-your-hopping-journey-begins) --- ## The Allure of Rex Rabbit Bunnies: Why They're So Special What makes Rex rabbits a good pet? The answer lies primarily in their extraordinary fur and gentle temperament. As soft as velvet, the Rex’s fur sets it apart from other rabbit breeds, making it a popular choice for both pet owners and breeders. This unique texture isn't just for show; it's a defining characteristic that contributes to their appeal. The Rex breed comes from a recessive rex gene mutation, which gives the rabbit its plush, dense, and smooth fur, lacking the longer guard hairs found in most other breeds. This results in an incredibly uniform, soft coat that feels truly luxurious to the touch. Beyond their unparalleled coats, Rex rabbit bunnies are known to be docile and friendly, making them wonderful companions. These soft and cuddly little creatures make for great pets, especially for those who appreciate a rabbit that enjoys interaction. They are generally calm and affectionate, often seeking out human companionship for cuddles or playtime. Their unique and charming personality, combined with their velvety fur, truly makes the Rex rabbit a standout breed in the world of domestic rabbits. ## A Glimpse into History: The Origin of Rex Rabbit Bunnies The Rex rabbit wasn’t born yesterday, ya know. This is an illustrious little bunny with quite a rich history worth exploring. European breeders first conceived the Rex rabbit in the early 1900s, specifically originating in France after the discovery of a litter of wild gray rabbits in 1919. This gorgeous breed was born from this unexpected genetic mutation, where the recessive rex gene piqued breeders' curiosity. These uniquely furred rabbits were deliberately grown into a domestic breed, and their distinctive qualities quickly gained recognition. Rex rabbits were displayed in Paris at an international rabbit show in 1924, where their exceptional fur and gentle demeanor captivated audiences and breeders alike. This public debut solidified their place in the rabbit world, paving the way for their widespread popularity across the globe. The standard Rex rabbit, as we know it today, is a direct descendant of these initial French discoveries and dedicated breeding efforts. ## Understanding the Rex Rabbit: Physical Characteristics & Lifespan Rex rabbit bunnies possess a distinct appearance that goes beyond their famous fur. They have a broad head, upright ears, strong legs, and, of course, extraordinarily soft fur, complemented by curly whiskers. These physical traits contribute to their charming and robust appearance. While their size can vary, the standard Rex rabbit is a medium-to-large breed, typically weighing between 7.5 to 10.5 pounds (3.4 to 4.8 kg) when fully grown. There are also Mini Rex rabbits, which are a smaller version, generally weighing 3.5 to 4.5 pounds (1.6 to 2 kg). One of the fascinating aspects of the Rex breed is its diverse color palette. The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) currently recognizes 16 different color varieties for the Rex rabbit, including popular ones like black, white, blue, castor, opal, broken (any color with white), and many more. This wide range of colors adds to their appeal, allowing owners to choose a bunny that perfectly matches their aesthetic preference. In terms of longevity, Rex rabbits typically live six to eight years, provided they receive proper care, nutrition, and a safe environment. With good husbandry, some can even live longer, offering many years of companionship. ## Temperament and Behavior: The Heart of Rex Rabbit Bunnies Rex rabbits are known to be one of the friendliest pet rabbit breeds, making them excellent companions for individuals and families alike. Their gentle temperament and curious nature mean they often enjoy interacting with their human caregivers. While a Rex rabbit may not enjoy being picked up and held for extended periods – a common trait among many rabbit breeds due to their prey animal instincts – they will generally gladly come to you to play games and to cuddle on their own terms. They are often quite social and can form strong bonds with their owners, recognizing voices and even responding to their names. These small rabbits make great pets for experienced rabbit owners who are looking for a lively and social companion. Their intelligence means they can be litter trained and even taught simple tricks, making interaction even more rewarding. Providing them with ample space for exercise and mental stimulation, such as toys and tunnels, is crucial for their well-being and to prevent boredom. ### Social Butterflies: Rex Rabbits and Other Pets Does this rabbit get along with other pets? Rex rabbits get along swimmingly with other bunnies. They love the companionship and social nature of being around their kind. If you're considering getting more than one rabbit, Rexes are a great choice for bonding, provided they are introduced properly and have enough space. Always ensure both rabbits are spayed or neutered to prevent unwanted litters and reduce hormonal aggression. When it comes to other household pets, such as cats or dogs, caution is always advised. While some Rex rabbits may tolerate or even bond with a calm, rabbit-friendly cat or dog, it's essential to supervise interactions closely. Rabbits are prey animals, and even a playful nip from a larger animal can cause significant stress or injury. Introductions should be gradual and always prioritize the rabbit's safety and comfort. ### Rex Rabbits and Children: A Perfect Match? The gentle nature of Rex rabbit bunnies often makes them seem like ideal pets for children. However, due to their potential size and the delicate nature of rabbits, some considerations are important. Since the Rex rabbit gets rather large, they are unsuitable for daily handling if the child is very small. Young children, especially those under eight, may not yet understand how to properly handle a rabbit, which could lead to accidental injury to the bunny or a scratch to the child. These rabbits tend to be best for children eight and older who can be taught how to interact gently and respectfully with a pet. Supervised interaction is always recommended, ensuring that the child understands the rabbit's body language and knows when to give the bunny space. When handled correctly, Rex rabbits can form lovely bonds with children, becoming cherished family members. ## Caring for Your Rex Rabbit Bunny: A Commitment to Well-being Caring for a Rex rabbit requires commitment and understanding of their unique needs. Providing a suitable environment, proper nutrition, and regular health checks are paramount to their longevity and happiness. A spacious enclosure, whether an indoor pen or a large hutch, is essential, allowing them room to hop, stretch, and play. The floor should be solid, not wire, to prevent sore hocks. Daily exercise outside their enclosure in a secure, rabbit-proofed area is also vital. Their diet should primarily consist of high-quality hay (like timothy hay), which is crucial for their digestive health and dental wear. Fresh vegetables, a small amount of high-quality rabbit pellets, and fresh water should also be provided daily. Avoid sugary treats and ensure any new foods are introduced gradually. ### Grooming Your Velvety Companion The Rex rabbit's unique fur requires specific grooming attention. Unlike most rabbits, Rexes have very short, dense fur that stands upright. This means they don't shed in the same way as other breeds, and their fur doesn't typically mat. However, they still benefit from regular grooming, especially during shedding seasons. Instead of brushing, a gentle wipe with a damp cloth or a light rub with your hands can help remove loose fur and keep their coat clean and shiny. This also allows you to check for any skin issues or parasites. Their unique fur also means they are more susceptible to sore hocks if kept on abrasive or wire surfaces, so ensuring a soft, clean bedding area is crucial. ### Health and Wellness: Keeping Your Rex Rabbit Thriving Maintaining the health of your Rex rabbit bunny involves regular observation and preventative care. Key health concerns for rabbits include dental problems (due to continuously growing teeth), digestive issues (like GI stasis), and respiratory infections. Look out for changes in eating habits, lethargy, changes in droppings, or discharge from the eyes or nose. Routine veterinary check-ups with a rabbit-savvy vet are essential, including vaccinations where recommended for diseases like Myxomatosis and Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHDV1 and RHDV2). Spaying or neutering your Rex rabbit is highly recommended not only for population control but also for significant health benefits, such as preventing uterine cancer in females and reducing aggression in males. Providing a stress-free environment, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise are the best ways to ensure your Rex rabbit lives a long, healthy life. ## Rex Rabbit Bunnies in the Spotlight: Show, Fur, and Meat Currently, Rex rabbits are most commonly kept for show rabbits, fur & meat. Their exceptional fur quality makes them highly prized in the show circuit, where judges evaluate them based on breed standards, including coat density, texture, and body type. Breeders meticulously work to produce bunnies that meet these exacting standards, often starting their "jr show team" with young bunnies, sometimes hitting senior weight at just 4 months old! The dedication involved in raising show-quality Rex rabbit bunnies is immense, highlighting their esteemed status in the rabbit community. Beyond the show ring, the Rex's unique fur has historical significance in the fur industry, though ethical considerations have led to a decline in this practice in many regions. Historically, their soft, dense pelts were valued for clothing and accessories. Additionally, like many rabbit breeds, Rexes are also raised for meat, providing a lean and sustainable protein source in some agricultural contexts. This multi-purpose utility underscores the versatility and value of the Rex breed. ## Finding Your Perfect Rex Rabbit Bunny: Adoption & Breeders If you're looking to welcome a Rex rabbit bunny into your home, you have several options. Listings of Rex bunnies for sale for show and pets are readily available through various channels. Many dedicated breeders specialize in Rex rabbits, focusing on health, temperament, and adherence to breed standards. For example, you might find listings like "I have 3 baby Mini Rex rabbits available for sale, there are 2 male rabbits, both broken black and broken castor in color, and 1 female rabbit, which is a black otter." These breeders often provide detailed information about their bunnies, including their lineage and health history. We are dedicated to helping you find quality Rex rabbits for sale in every state across the country and connect with local rabbit breeders. If you don’t find any local listings below, be sure to check out our Rex rabbit breeders page. We also provide a comprehensive rabbit breeders directory with thousands of breeders, including contacts like "National Rex Rabbit Club, Arlyse DeLoyola, Secy, PO Box 1465 Cave Junction, OR 97523." This resource is invaluable for connecting with reputable sources. Alternatively, Rex bunny for adoption listings are also included within our site search. Animal shelters and rescue organizations often have rabbits of all breeds, including Rexes, looking for loving homes. Adopting a rabbit can be a incredibly rewarding experience, giving a second chance to a bunny in need. When choosing a rabbit, whether from a breeder or a rescue, always prioritize health, temperament, and ensure the source is reputable and ethical. ## Becoming a Savvy Rex Owner: Your Hopping Journey Begins Learning all about Rex rabbits in this helpful guide is just the first step on your journey to becoming a savvy, responsible Rex owner. These unique and charming companions offer immense joy and affection, but they also require dedication and understanding. From their distinctive velvety fur and gentle personality to their specific care needs and social inclinations, Rex rabbit bunnies are truly special creatures. By committing to providing a safe, stimulating environment, a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and plenty of love, you can ensure your Rex rabbit thrives and becomes a cherished member of your family. Their friendly demeanor and interactive nature make them incredibly rewarding pets for those willing to invest the time and effort. So, take what you've learned, continue to research, and prepare for a wonderful adventure with your new velvety friend. Do you have a Rex rabbit? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! We'd love to hear about your furry companions. And if you're still considering adding a Rex to your family, don't hesitate to explore more of our resources on responsible rabbit ownership.
