Rex Rabbit: Calm Dual-Purpose Meat and Fur Breed

The Rex is a French breed developed in the early 1920s, famous for a genetic quirk that gives it short, upright, plush fur that feels like velvet. Homesteaders keep it as a true dual-purpose rabbit - a respectable meat carcass plus a pelt that actually has value - all in a calm, manageable package.

Is it right for you?

Good for small homesteads with limited space and anyone who wants meat plus a usable pelt. Its steady temperament suits beginners and families. It tolerates cold better than heat, so hot-climate keepers need shade and airflow.

What you get

Adults reach 7.5 to 10.5 lbs. Fryers are typically processed at 8 to 12 weeks around 4.5 to 5 lbs live, giving a decent meat-to-bone ratio. The standout is the pelt: short (about 0.5 inch), dense, even fur used for craft and garment work. A doe can raise several litters a year, 6 to 8 kits each.

Space & Housing

One rabbit needs a hutch or cage roughly 30 by 36 inches, larger for a doe with a litter. Wire flooring with a resting board prevents sore hocks, a real Rex concern. Keep them dry, shaded, and predator-proof.

Feeding & Daily Care

Feed quality pellets plus grass hay and clean water daily. An adult eats roughly 4 to 6 oz of pellets a day, so feed cost stays low. Daily routine is quick: check water, feed, glance over each animal.

Temperament & Handling

Rex are known as docile and people-friendly, among the calmer breeds. They are quiet and easy to lift and handle, though bucks can get territorial at maturity.

Health & Hardiness

Cold-hardy but heat-sensitive; sore hocks are the main breed-specific watch point because of the short foot fur. For any health concern or breeding stock, work with reputable breeders and a livestock veterinarian.

Getting Started

Begin with one buck and two or three does. Buy from a reputable breeder, learn to sex young stock, and keep simple breeding records.

Common Mistakes

Wire-only floors causing sore hocks; underestimating heat stress; and breeding for size while ignoring coat quality.

FAQ

Is Rex fur really worth tanning?

Yes - the dense, even pile is one of the few home rabbit pelts with genuine craft value.

Are they good for beginners?

Yes. Their calm temperament and modest space needs make them forgiving first rabbits.