Mini Rex
A small rabbit with the plush Rex coat, developed in Texas in the 1980s.
Origin
Monna Berryhill of Texas began the Mini Rex in 1984 after winning a pair of Dwarf Rex at the ARBA Convention in Orlando. A small buck from that pair was bred to a small Lynx Rex doe, and three does from the resulting litter became the foundation of the breed. ARBA approved a working standard for the Castor Mini Rex in 1986, and the breed was recognized in 1988.
Typical Adult Size
Small, with an ARBA maximum of 4½ pounds (about 2 kg).
Coat Type
The same short, dense, upright plush fur as the Rex, with guard hairs nearly as short as the undercoat, on a compact body.
Colors
A wide range, with nearly 20 recognized colors. Castor was the original variety, and the list now includes self colors, otters, martens, Himalayans, tri-colors and broken patterns.
Temperament
Generally calm and easygoing. Together with its irresistible coat, that has earned it the nickname "The People’s Choice in a Fancy Breed".
Grooming and Care
Grooming is minimal: a soft brush or a damp hand during molts is enough. As with the Rex, soft, solid resting surfaces help protect the feet. Daily exercise and plenty of hay are important.
Distinctive Features
The velvet coat on a short, well-rounded body, with short upright ears and a bold head.
What Makes It Notable
One of the great success stories of the rabbit fancy. ARBA reports that the Mini Rex is consistently the first or second most-entered breed at its national conventions.