Astrex

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, curly rex fur

A Rex-furred rabbit whose short, plush coat forms waves and crimped curls instead of lying flat. As in other Rex rabbits, the guard hairs are cut back to about the length of the undercoat, which gives the fur its velvety feel.132

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Rabbits keep themselves clean, so routine care is mostly regular hands-on checks of coat, nails and teeth.4

Home where they are happiest

Needs a secure living area of at least 3m x 2m x 1m so it can hop, play, stretch, hide and exercise, with toys and foraging opportunities for enrichment.4

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Hay should form the foundation of the diet, as constant chewing keeps the teeth worn down, with fresh leafy greens and a measured amount of pellets alongside. Carrots are best kept as an occasional treat.4

Company who they like around

A social animal that should live with at least one other rabbit; a neutered male and female pair is often the easiest match.4

The story where it all began

The Astrex appeared in Britain in the early 1930s as a curly-coated form of the Rex, itself descended from rabbits with the rex coat found in France in 1919. It was shown in Leipzig in 1936, and by 1996 rabbit author Sandford described it as very rare in Britain. A Canadian Astrex has appeared more recently.23

Recognised by the official bits

British Rabbit Council

Recognised in the Rex fur section; any BRC-recognised Rex colour is accepted.1

ARBA

Not recognised.1