Mini rex rabbits are a very unique breed of rabbit, and definately my favorite! They are the miniature version of the
standard rex that weighs in at 7 1/2-10 1/2 lbs. The standard rexes originally appeared as mutations in the litters of other
types of rabbits in the early 1900's. They became an established breed and were accepted be the ARBA (American Rabbit
Breeders Assocciation) in 1919. "Rex" means "King", and that is what they are...a majestic breed of rabbit. The mini rex is a
newer variety that was established and accepted by the ARBA in 1988. The mini rex weigh in at only 3-4 1/2 lbs, although
they can get to be 5 lbs or more (the standard rex gene pops up every once in awhile and you get a bigger bunny). Their size is
one of the things I love about them. They are easy to handle and require less space to house.
Normally rabbits have a soft undercoat of fur that is about 5/8 inch or so long, as well as guard hairs that are longer
and more coarse. What makes the rex and mini rex varieties unique is that the guard hairs are the same length and texture as
the undercoat. This gives them a very plush coat of fur. This amazing coat of fur is what attracted me to the rex variety and
then later to the mini rex variety.
Another great thing about the mini rex rabbits is the sweet and loving temperment that they have when shown the
love and affection that they need. They often beg their owners for attention and love to play. They are also quite curious and
can hop around one room for hours when out of their cage for exercise, as if they've never seen it before. The males tend
to be more hyper than females and the females tend to be a little more shy, but both males and females make great pets.