Rabbit breed

Mini Rex

Also known as: Mini Rex Rabbit

A small rabbit with a velvet-plush coat and a calm temperament.

Written by E. S.· Updated October 2026

  • Calm
  • Friendly
  • Gentle
  • Curious
  • Sociable

The Mini Rex is a smaller version of the Rex, with the same uniquely soft, plush coat. Mini Rex rabbits are calm, friendly and easy to handle, which makes them a popular family rabbit. They need the same space, diet and veterinary care as any rabbit.

At a glance

Origin
United States
Size
Small
Weight
3–4 lb (1.5–2 kg)
Lifespan
7–10 years
Coat
Short, dense, plush rex fur
Colours
Black, Blue, Castor, Chocolate, Lilac, Opal, Red, White and more
Average cost
$60–$110 / month

Breed ratings

Rated 1–5 on the same scale as every other entry, so scores are comparable between breeds. Amber stars mark things that cost you effort rather than things that benefit you.

Energy level
Exercise needs
Intelligence
Trainability
Affection

Wants close contact with people

Independence
Good with children

Patient and tolerant with kids

Good with other pets

Usually settles with other animals

Apartment friendly

Comfortable in a smaller home

Beginner friendly

Forgiving for a first-time owner

Shedding
Grooming needs
Noise level

Temperament

Mini Rex rabbits are calm and handle well, making them good family pets.

Care & upkeep

Exercise

3–4 hours of free-roaming daily.

Grooming

Gentle weekly brushing with a soft brush. Never bathe.

Training

Litter train readily and accept gentle handling.

Feeding & diet

Typical diet
Hay-based herbivore diet
Daily amount
Unlimited hay, 1 cup greens, 1–2 tbsp pellets
Meals per day
Hay always available; greens and pellets daily

Hay must make up most of the diet.

Foods to avoid

  • Iceberg lettuce
  • Muesli-style mixes
  • Large amounts of fruit
  • Bread and cereal
  • Onion family vegetables

Who this breed suits

A good match for

  • Families with older children
  • First-time rabbit owners
  • Apartments

Probably not for

  • Wire-floored hutches
  • Very young children

Common health problems

This section describes conditions the breed is known to be predisposed to, so you know what to ask about. It is not veterinary advice and is not a diagnosis — always speak to a vet about your own animal.

  • Sore hocksThin foot fur makes soft, solid flooring essential.
  • GI stasisNo eating or droppings for 12 hours is an emergency.
  • Dental diseaseHay keeps teeth worn.
  • FlystrikeCheck the rear daily in summer.

Foot care is the breed-specific priority.

Interesting facts

  • Developed in the United States in the 1980s.
  • Rex fur has guard hairs the same length as the undercoat, giving its velvet feel.
  • One of the most popular show rabbits in the US.

Diet & Feeding

Unlimited timothy hay should make up 80–85% of the diet, plus about a cup of leafy greens daily and one to two tablespoons of pellets.

Exercise & Enrichment

Mini Rex rabbits need 3–4 hours of free-roaming time daily and a spacious enclosure with tunnels and chew toys.

Grooming

The plush coat needs only gentle weekly brushing — avoid hard brushes. Never bathe. Rex fur is thin on the feet, so provide soft, solid flooring to prevent sore hocks.

Health & Vet Care

Watch for sore hocks, GI stasis, dental disease, E. cuniculi and flystrike. Spay or neuter, and vaccinate against myxomatosis and RHD.

Living with a Mini Rex

Mini Rex rabbits are calm and friendly. Keep them in bonded pairs and handle gently with the hindquarters supported.