Detailed profile of this breed: origin, year of creation, recognised varieties and official approvals.
Breed summary
The Rex is a medium-sized domestic rabbit best known for its distinctive plush, velvety coat produced by a recessive hair mutation. Adult Standard Rex typically weigh about 3.4–4.8 kg (7.5–10.5 lb); the Mini Rex, a smaller variety developed later, usually weighs about 1.6–2.0 kg (3.5–4.5 lb). Lifespan under good care is commonly 5–8 years. Temperament is generally calm, curious and people-oriented, which—together with the coat—makes the breed popular for showing and as companion animals; many color and pattern varieties are recognized by breed clubs.
Detailed origin
The rex fur mutation was first noted in France in the early 20th century (around 1919–1920). French breeders selected animals that expressed the plush pile and stabilized the trait; the type was exported to the United Kingdom and the United States during the 1920s. The Rex was adopted by major rabbit organizations in that decade (for example, the ARBA recognized the Rex in the 1920s). Development emphasis focused on fixing the short, dense pile and producing a compact, well-muscled body suitable for showing.
Detailed description
Conformation: Standard Rex presents a compact, well-muscled 'commercial' body with a medium to broad head and clean shoulders; adult weight ~3.4–4.8 kg. Coat: the defining trait is the short, erect pile in which guard hairs are the same length as the undercoat, yielding a dense, velvety texture; pile length is short (typically around 1–2 cm) and the coat is very plush to the touch. Reproduction and husbandry: average litter size commonly ranges 5–8 kits; despite the short coat the Rex benefits from routine health checks and minimal grooming (removal of loose hair, nail care). Uses: historically used in the fur trade and for meat in some regions, but today mostly kept for exhibition and companionship.