The Mini Rex is a breed of domestic rabbit noted for its short, dense, velvety coat that resembles the texture of velvet or plush fabric. Developed in the United States in the early 20th century, the breed is a miniature version of the larger Rex rabbit, which was originally created in France in the 1910s to produce a rabbit with a plush, uniform fur.
History
The Mini Rex originated in the 1920s and 1930s through selective breeding of smaller Rex individuals and other miniature rabbit breeds. The American Mini Rex Club, established in 1975, formalized breed standards and promotes the breed among fanciers and exhibitors.
Physical Characteristics
- Size: Adults typically weigh between 2.5 lb (1.1 kg) and 3.5 lb (1.6 kg).
- Coat: The defining feature is a short (approximately 1/8 inch or 3 mm), dense, and springy coat with a uniform “rex” texture. The fur lies flat against the body, giving a plush appearance.
- Coloration: Recognized color varieties include white, black, blue, chocolate, lilac, tortoise, and a range of patterned and shaded colors.
- Body: Compact, well‑rounded body with a short, broad head, small ears that lie close to the skull, and a short tail.
Behavior and Temperament
Mini Rex rabbits are generally calm, friendly, and amenable to handling, making them popular as companion animals and show rabbits. Their docile nature also facilitates breeding and exhibition.
Uses
- Companion animal: Favoured for their manageable size and gentle disposition.
- Exhibition: Frequently shown in rabbit shows, judged according to coat quality, color, body conformation, and overall condition.
- Fiber: While the fur is not typically harvested for commercial fiber production, some enthusiasts collect shed fur for craft purposes.
Care Requirements
Mini Rex rabbits require standard rabbit husbandry, including a balanced diet of hay, fresh vegetables, and pellets; regular grooming to remove loose fur; adequate exercise; and veterinary care, particularly dental checks and vaccinations where applicable.
Related Terms
- Rex rabbit: The larger progenitor breed from which the Mini Rex was derived.
- Rex fur: A term used in the textile industry to describe a plush, short‑pile fabric, named after the Rex rabbit’s coat; the term “Mini Rex” is occasionally applied informally to a type of miniaturized rex‑style carpet or fabric, though this usage is less common.
Recognition
The Mini Rex is recognized by major rabbit breeding and showing organizations, including the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) and the British Rabbit Council (BRC), which maintain breed standards for exhibition.