Rex Guinea Pig

Physical Characteristics

The Rex Guinea Pig is a distinctive shorthaired breed, instantly recognizable for its dense, woolly coat and plush appearance.

Coat:
The Rex has a short, dense, and coarse coat that stands upright, giving it a wool-like texture. Unlike other short-haired guinea pigs, the hair is springy and does not lie flat. Their fur is typically about ½ in (1–1.5 cm) long, creating a plush, textured look. Coat colors and patterns vary widely, including solids, bi-colors, and multi-colored markings.

Face:
They have a broad, rounded head with large, expressive eyes and slightly drooping ears. Their whiskers are short and curly, adding to their unique look.

Body:
The body is sturdy and cylindrical, with a muscular build. The upright coat emphasizes their round profile, making them appear fuller compared to smooth-coated breeds.

Size:

• Length (Body): 8 to 12 in (20 to 30 cm)

• Shoulder Height: About 4 to 5 in (10 to 13 cm)

Weight:

• Adults generally weigh 1.5 to 2.5 lbs (700 to 1,100 g).

The Rex Guinea Pig’s dense, plush coat and short, curly whiskers make it one of the most distinctive and tactile guinea pig breeds, often compared to a miniature plush toy.

Reproduction

The reproductive cycle of the Rex Guinea Pig follows the same pattern as other guinea pig breeds, though their pups often inherit the distinctive plush coat.

1. Mating and Courtship:
Rex guinea pigs breed year-round when males (boars) and females (sows) are kept together. Courtship includes vocalizations, gentle nudging, and circling, with males often purring and swaying to attract females.

2. Gestation:
Pregnancy lasts 59 to 72 days, averaging about 68 days. This extended gestation allows pups to be born in an advanced state of development.

3. Birth of Pups:
Litters typically consist of 1 to 6 pups, with 3 to 4 being most common. Pups are precocial, born with fur, open eyes, teeth, and the ability to move shortly after birth. In the Rex, pups often display the beginnings of their coarse, upright fur right away.

4. Care and Nurturing:
Mothers nurse their pups, though young begin nibbling solid food within hours. Rex pups require no additional coat care in early life, but their denser fur grows in more prominently as they mature.

5. Weaning and Growth:
Weaning occurs at around 3 weeks of age. At this point, males are often separated to prevent early breeding.

6. Independence and Maturity:

• Females: Can become fertile as early as 4 weeks.

• Males: Reach sexual maturity at about 8–10 weeks.

The Rex Guinea Pig’s reproductive cycle ensures pups are born strong and active, with many already showing the curly whiskers and textured fur that make the breed so distinctive.

Lifespan

Rex guinea pigs are hardy and robust, with a lifespan that reflects both their sturdy build and the quality of care they receive.

Lifespan in the Wild (Not Applicable):
The Rex guinea pig is a domesticated breed of Cavia porcellus and does not occur naturally in the wild. Its wild ancestor is believed to be the montane guinea pig (Cavia tschudii), native to the Andes of South America.

Lifespan in Captivity:
With proper care, Rex guinea pigs generally live 5 to 7 years, though some can reach 8 years or more. Their lifespan is comparable to most other guinea pig breeds.

Threats to the Rex Guinea Pig:

• Vitamin C Deficiency: Like all guinea pigs, Rex guinea pigs cannot produce vitamin C, making them prone to scurvy without proper dietary supplementation.

• Dental and Digestive Issues: Insufficient hay consumption can lead to overgrown teeth and digestive problems.

• Obesity: Their sturdy build makes them prone to weight gain if overfed or given too many high-calorie treats.

• Environmental Stress: Poor housing, lack of enrichment, or exposure to drafts and extreme temperatures can shorten lifespan.

Care and Protection:
A balanced diet rich in hay and vitamin C, regular veterinary care, and an enriched, stress-free environment are essential for longevity. With attentive care, Rex guinea pigs can thrive as affectionate and long-lived companions.

Eating Habits

Rex guinea pigs are herbivores with the same dietary needs as other guinea pig breeds, though their sturdy build means they benefit from careful portion balance to prevent obesity.

Diet:
Their diet must be based on unlimited hay, which provides essential fiber for digestion and wears down continuously growing teeth. Fresh vegetables and leafy greens should be given daily, particularly those rich in vitamin C such as bell peppers, parsley, and kale. Commercial guinea pig pellets fortified with vitamin C help provide consistent nutrition, while fruits should be offered sparingly as treats.

Feeding Behavior:
Rex guinea pigs are constant grazers, nibbling steadily throughout the day and night. They enjoy foraging behaviors, and providing vegetables in bunches or scattered hay helps mimic natural feeding.

Special Considerations:

• Vitamin C: Daily supplementation is essential to prevent scurvy.

• Hydration: Fresh, clean water should always be available.

• Weight Control: Their strong, stocky build makes them prone to obesity if given too many treats or energy-dense foods.

• Gradual Changes: New foods should be introduced slowly to avoid digestive upset.

Social Eating:
Rex guinea pigs prefer eating alongside companions, which reduces stress and supports healthy feeding habits.

The eating habits of Rex guinea pigs emphasize their need for a fiber-rich, vitamin C–supplemented diet, balanced with portion control to keep their solid build healthy.

Uniqueness

The Rex Guinea Pig is one of the most distinctive breeds, admired for its plush, textured coat and curly whiskers.

Wool-Like Coat:
Unlike other guinea pig breeds, the Rex has a short, dense, upright coat that feels coarse and woolly, similar to a plush toy. This gives them a unique texture compared to the smooth coats of most breeds.

Curly Whiskers:
One of the Rex’s most charming features is its curly whiskers, which set it apart from other guinea pigs and add to its unusual appearance.

Low-Maintenance Grooming:
Despite their dense coat, Rex guinea pigs require less grooming than longhaired breeds, as their short hair does not mat easily. This makes them easier to care for while still being highly distinctive.

Robust Build:
Rex guinea pigs have a sturdy, muscular body, giving them a solid and strong appearance compared to slimmer breeds.

Gentle Temperament:
They are generally calm, affectionate, and social, making them excellent companions. Their unique look paired with their friendly personality makes them a favorite for families and enthusiasts alike.

The Rex Guinea Pig’s combination of curly whiskers, woolly coat, and robust build makes it one of the most recognizable and distinctive guinea pig breeds in the world.