Rex Guinea pigs are one of the most popular cavy breeds , with their wiry coats and large size of it . Their friendly demeanor and fluffy , white potato vine - like appearance make them extremely desirable . Like most breeds , they are well-fixed to take tending of , and make great pets for kids and adults alike .
History and Origin
dago pigs were to begin with bred by the Incas and have been domesticated for about 5,000 class . The exact origin of the Rex is not entirely clear , though this unparalleled breed has been around for some clip . TheBritish Cavy Councilrecognizes the strain , but theAmerican Cavy Breeders Association ( ACBA)does not - However , the ACBA does recognize the Teddy , a similar breed .
The Holy Scripture " Rex " come from Latin , and translates to " King " or " Ruler . " This is a suitable name for the strain , because they are so much larger than other Guinea pig breeds .
Teddy Versus Rex Guinea Pigs
Rex Guinea grunter are often confused with teddy Guinea pigs . Each of these strain has a genetical variation that involve their coat , bring in it wiry or bristly . However , the Teddy Guinea copper is softer than the Rex . The Rex ’s coat is more coarse . The Teddy Guinea pig also has forward - growing hair above their eye , differentiating them from the Rex .
Appearance and Physical Traits
Unlike other Guinea pig bed , which have straight fur , the Rex has a inadequate , dense , and curly coating that is soft to the touch . Their coating is about a half inch in length . They ’re also known for their large , droopy ears .
Size and Weight
The Rex Guinea pig is larger than almost all otheradult Guinea pig size . They can get up to 18 inches in length , and are often between 1 to 3 pound .
Enclosure Size Requirements
Despite their unequalled appearance , Rex Guinea pigs call for similar care to other strain . They need a sportsmanlike and comfortable living place that is at least 4 - straight foot , with plenty of room to move around and play . If you’re able to swing it , a large enclosure is safe . Also , keep in mind that all Guinea pigs necessitate at least one hour outside their enclosures every day , for exercise and enrichment .
Coat Colors
The king Guinea sloven can be recover in several coat colors , include :
They can also have a miscellanea of these coating colouring material outlined above .
Unique Traits
The following are traits unequalled to the Rex :
Average Lifespan
Rex Guinea pigslive 5 to 8 yearsin captivity . However , with consistent upkeep and attention to their indigence - including their dieting and enrichment prerequisite - it is common to see Rex Guinea pigs gain 10 years of age or more .
Care Basics
Despite their unique appearance , Rex Guinea devour requiresimilar careto other breeds . Like all other Guinea fuzz , the Rex requires a continuous supply of Timothy hay or another gamy - tone hay , a nutritious pellet diet , fruits , and veggie .
Enrichment
The Rex Guinea fuzz command regular example . Becuase they are a larger breed , without enough physical activity they can become overweight a little more apace than other cavy ( at least , in some example ) . While their coop should be big enough to bleed around in , they still call for consistent prison term outside their enclosure every day . hide out places in their envelopment can also cater Guinea pigs with some fun playtime .
You should never place a running steering wheel in any Guinea sloven ’s John Cage , as they could spite their back play on it .
Grooming
The Rex Guinea pig ’s wiry fur coat demand more care than other Guinea pigs . They should be brush on a daily basis to prevent mat or tangling . Remember to sweep gently , even if your Guinea ’s pelt has tangle . you may easily hurt them if you pull too harshly . However , if done decently , this breed often enjoy cause their fur brushed .
Short - coated Guinea pigs , like the Rex , do not need baths very often , though some bathing is beneficial to prevent feces from build up on their fur . Most do n’t need full baths , but be sure to allow for this breed with a thorough cleaning using cavy - friendly shampoo .
Diet and Feeding
Other than the fact Rexes are large than most cavy , their nutritional requirements are very similar . They need a varied diet that includes appropriate type of hay , a commercial-grade pelleted dieting made for Guinea sloven , and a mix of vegetables and fruits for stimulation and to make certain their general aliment needs are adjoin .
Behavior and Handling
Although each Guinea pig , regardless of breed , has their own personality , the Rex is known to be friendly , affectionate , and calm . Rex Guinea sloven do adept when they ’re observe in pairs . They can be maintain with other Guinea pig breeds . They just want some company .
Health
Like other Guinea pigs , the Rex is prostrate to certain ill :
Caring for Babies
Rex Guinea grunter babies ask milk from their mother for the first several weeks of their life . However , they will begin eating solid foods after only a few days . Since their mother only give them a few times per twenty-four hour period , the female parent can seem as if she has vacate her youthful , when she is actually still doing her job . Only take babies if absolutely necessary , because they will do best with natural rearing from their mother .
Availability and Cost
If you ’re explore for a Rex Guinea pig , you may get them at some pet stores , but your good bet is to settle a breeder . Because the stock is not recognized by the ACBA in the U.S. , you may involve to do a snatch of look for to find one . you’re able to wait to pay between $ 50 and $ 100 at a pet store , or more from a breeder .
Do n’t forget about the cost of developing and maintaining their home ground . You will also ask to purchase food and hay on a unconstipated basis . And be prepare for any necessary veterinary expenses .
Are They Good for Children?
The Rex can be a in effect choice for your child due to their love of being pet , brush , and spending time with their human family . They love to be obtain and nuzzle , but like other piggies , they can be easily hurt if they are devolve or squeezed . check that your shaver is responsible with handling , and make certain to learn them how to care Guinea grunter properly prior to adopting them .
Is the Rex Guinea Pig Right for You?
If you ’re searching for a lovable , downlike Guinea grunter and you ’re ready to maintain their fast - growing nails , the Rex Guinea pig could be the breed for you . Prior to choosing a breed , do your inquiry to shape which breed is practiced for you and your family , or your tike .
