The mini-rex rabbit is a smaller version of the Rex rabbit, a breed known for its fluffy, velvety fur. While an adult Rex rabbit weighs about 10 pounds, a mini-rex only weighs about 4 pounds. The mini-rex has a compact, round body and is available in many different colors. They require moderate care, which includes daily feeding and regular cleaning of their habitat. They also benefit from plenty of socialization and playtime.
Breed Overview
COMMON NAME: Mini-rex rabbit
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Oryctolagus cuniculus
ADULT SIZE: 10 to 12 inches long, average weight 3.5 to 4.5 pounds.
LIFETIME: 7 to 10 years
Behavior and temperament of Mini Rex rabbits
Although all rabbits are individuals, the Mini Rex breed is known to be very friendly, sociable, and easy-going. Mini Rex rabbits are generally docile and willing to be treated gently. In general, however, rabbits prefer not to be picked up and carried around, although many enjoy petting and cuddling with humans. They do not tend to bite but may scratch if they feel uncomfortable or threatened.
Mini rex rabbits can form a close bond with their caregivers. It is also ideal to have more than one rabbit to meet their social needs. Animals of the opposite sex can also be kept together, as long as they are neutered. In addition, rabbits get along well with other calm, well-behaved pets, such as cats and dogs. However, be sure to introduce the animals to each other safely and gradually, and avoid placing rabbits close to animals they might consider prey.
Rabbits are quite active pets, but they are also relatively calm. Be prepared to spend some time each day feeding and keeping their habitat clean. In addition, you should give your rabbit several hours of playtime and socialization. A rabbit that is not mentally stimulated and physically active can become destructive and unwillingly chew and dig.
Size Information
Mini-rex rabbits are about 10 to 12 inches long and weigh less than 5 pounds.
Housing
Your rabbit’s enclosure should be at least 18 by 24 centimeters and taller than your rabbit stands fully erect on its hind legs. However, a larger enclosure is always preferable, and you should allow more space if you have several rabbits in the enclosure.
A cage with wire sides is ideal for ventilation, but do not choose a cage with a wire bottom, as this can be hard on the rabbits’ feet. Many owners opt for a dog crate or dog park. Make sure the sides of the pen are high enough that your rabbit can’t jump out.
Place food and water bowls, toys (especially chew toys), a stable shelf for your rabbit to jump on, and a litter box in the enclosure. Make sure the rabbit still has enough room to stretch out with its back legs extended.
Protect the enclosure from direct sunlight and drafts. Also, don’t place it in a noisy, crowded area. Keep it close, however, as rabbits like to be near their human family.
Wherever you allow your rabbit to roam outside its enclosure, make sure the area is rabbit-proof. Rabbits love to chew and will happily bite electrical wires and other potential hazards that can reach them.
Special substrate requirements
The floor of your rabbit pen should be non-slip. Many owners install washable mats to make it softer and easier to clean. You can also provide your rabbit with a pile of straw to nest on and a soft blanket or towel (make sure your rabbit doesn’t get tangled in the material).
Remove waste from the bottom of the cage and the litter box daily. Also, wash the food and water bowls daily. And once a week, scrub everything in the enclosure with mild soap and water.
What do Mini Rex rabbits eat and drink?
The majority of your rabbit’s diet should consist of fresh grass hay such as timothy or oat hay. Feed him an unlimited amount of hay each day and make sure he always has some available. You can either stack the hay in the enclosure or use a special feeding trough called a hopper.
To supplement the hay, offer fresh green vegetables daily. These can be lettuce, herbs, radish, and carrot cabbage. Other fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, can be fed in smaller amounts. You can place the greens in a small ceramic bowl or simply on a clean area of the floor in the enclosure. Many pet owners offer this fresh food once or twice a day and remove it after a few hours to prevent spoilage. Check with your veterinarian for the appropriate amount, as it can vary depending on size and activity level.
Also, offer a small number of commercial pellets for rabbits daily. Keep in mind, however, that overfeeding pellets can lead to digestive problems and obesity. Therefore, discuss the appropriate amount to give your pet to your veterinarian. Put the equivalent of one day’s worth of pellets in a small ceramic bowl. After 24 hours, discard any leftovers in the bowl before adding the next day’s portion.
Finally, make sure your rabbit always has access to clean water. You can use a water bowl or bottle. Do not remove the bowl until you are sure your rabbit can drink from the bottle, and check regularly to make sure the bottle’s spout is working. Refresh the water every day.
Common health problems
Mini rex rabbits are susceptible to the same health problems as most other rabbit species. They include:
- Digestive problems, including diarrhea and constipation.
- Eye problems, such as corneal ulcers.
- Respiratory diseases.
- Skin problems, such as mites and fleas.
Many rabbits also have teeth that are too long, which can make eating and drinking difficult. Their teeth are constantly growing and must wear down from the food and objects in their environment that they chew on (e.g., chew toys that are not dangerous to rabbits). A veterinarian can file the teeth if needed.
Tip :
Not all veterinarians treat rabbits. Before taking a Mini Rex rabbit home, make sure there is a veterinarian nearby who will accept it as a patient.
Training to bedding
Mini Rex rabbits can be litter box trained just like a cat, which makes cleaning the cage easier and ensures a clean home when your rabbit is allowed to roam. Rabbits tend to choose a single place to defecate. Therefore, to train them to use the litter box, place the litter box in this spot of the enclosure. In addition to the litter, add some hay to the litter box to encourage the rabbit to visit it. If you see your rabbit using the litter box, treat it immediately to reinforce the behavior.
If your rabbit begins to do his business in another location, move the litter box to that location or add a second litter box. Until your rabbit is fully accustomed to the litter box, confine it to a small room with a litter box near it at all times.
Change the hay in the litter box daily and clean the litter at least every two days. There is a risk that rabbits will not use the litter box if it is dirty. Likewise, rabbits that are not neutered may do their business outside the litter box to mark their territory.
Exercise
Make sure your Mini-Rex has at least four hours a day outside of his enclosure to exercise, play and explore. However, be sure to secure your home before letting your rabbit run around. Rabbits like to chew and can get into trouble if they chew on electrical cords or other dangerous objects. Offer your rabbit toys, food puzzles, tunnels, and the like to encourage him to exercise.
Coat Care
Although rabbits spend a lot of time grooming, brush your Mini Rex about once a week (or more frequently during seasonal coat changes) to remove loose hair. Use a soft brush designed for rabbits and brush gently so as not to damage your rabbit’s delicate skin. Brushing not only prevents matting but also minimizes the amount of hair your rabbit picks up while grooming. Too much-ingested hair can lead to hairballs.
You will also need to trim your Mini Rex nails regularly. If this task makes you nervous, many veterinary clinics can do this for you. Your veterinarian can also teach you how to safely trim your rabbit’s nails at home.
Cost of keeping
Rabbits can be quite expensive pets. Your main expenses will be the food and bedding for your mini rex. Expect to spend about $40 to $60 each month, depending on the varieties you choose. You’ll also need to periodically replace worn-out toys (especially chew toys) and other enclosure parts, which will cost about $10 to $20. Finally, don’t forget to budget for routine veterinary checkups and emergency treatments.
Pros and cons of keeping a Mini Rex rabbit as a pet
Mini Rex rabbits are generally uncomplicated and friendly as pets. They are also quiet and do not take up much space. However, they can be costly to keep. And they have high social needs, often necessitating the purchase of a second rabbit.
Buying or adopting your Mini Rex rabbit
Mini Rex rabbits are a fairly popular breed, so you may find them in a pet store. However, it is often better to go to a reputable breeder or rescue organization where you are more likely to get adequate information about the animal’s health, history, and temperament. Expect to spend between $20 and $100, with the price depending on factors such as the age of the animal.
Breeding/Reproduction
Contact local veterinarians who specialize in exotic animals for recommendations on breeders and rescue organizations. You can also research breeders and rescue organizations through the American Rabbit Breeders Association and the House Rabbit Society. Breeders often have a larger selection of young rabbits. However, rabbits are also adoptable pets. Older rabbits are often a good choice, as you can get an immediate idea of their personalities and many are already tamed and used to the litter.
If you plan to take in rabbits of the opposite sex, discuss with your veterinarian the issue of sterilization before bringing them together to prevent them from reproducing.
