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Mini RexRabbit
As soft as soft can be

About
The first notable thing about the Mini Rex is its soft velveteen fur. This ‘Rexing’ mutation occurs when the guard hairs are shorter or the same length as the plush undercoat. As well as this the hairs stand on end rather than lying flat. Hence giving the rabbit a very dense, plush, velvet feeling coat. The mutation is originally noted to occur in wild populations of rabbits in France during the late 1800’s. If you are after a rabbit to give lots of pats they have to be high on your list. Your hand will act like a bee to honey on the first touch of this coat and you will find yourself their patting on end for a great deal of time. Mini Rex have a curious personality, and will enjoy exploring your house. On large Mini Rex rabbits generally have a friendly disposition. Their claws also grow faster than any other rabbit variety, so it is important to keep them regularly trim. They make a great pet for older children and adults alike.

History
The Mini Rex is a relatively new breed, it was originally developed in the US sate of Texas, by one Mona Berryhill. Taking a Dwarf Rex she crossed it to an undersized Rex Doe in 1984. From a litter of seven, three does where kept as the foundation for the Mini Rex breed. It was officially recognised by the ARBA in 1988 although the Blacks and Chocolates would have to wait until they improved. In Australia they where developed by taking Standard Rex and breeding them to Netherland Dwarfs. Very few Mini Rex still exhibit Netherland Dwarf characteristics and it has vastly improved since its initial development. It is thought Theresa Piggotti developed the breed here in 1990.

Type
The Mini Rex should be as a standard Rex in all respects except size. They are a small – medium sized rabbit, an adult Mini Rex should weigh 1.7kg – 2.04Kg, approximately half that of an adult Standard Rex. The most important factor of a Mini Rex is their coat; it should be approximately 1.27cm in length, with a fine silky texture, free from harshness or woolliness, intensely dense, plush-like character, lustrous sheen, smooth and level across the whole body, and devoid of projecting guard hairs. They are accepted and available in a wide variety of colours.