Rex rat (photo) – a curly variety of a decorative pet

The intelligence, contact and sociality of rats have made them one of the most popular species for home keeping. But even here a difficulty arises: you first need to choose the ideal breed, and there are many varieties of ornamental rats. Curly pets are very sympathetic – charming creatures, unlike the usual owners of sewers.

What does a rex rat look like?

The history of the appearance of the breed is simple: at the birth of a rat with curly hairs, breeders fixed the gene and brought out a new variety. It is the structure of the coat that distinguishes rex rodents from standard counterparts. The body structure and behavioral features are quite close to other varieties.

Description of the external features of the breed:

• hairs that curl like sheep’s;
• increased stiffness of wool;
• individual hairs can bristle;
• juveniles look ruffled – final curls have not yet formed;
• the main places of localization of curled wool are the back and sides;
• compared to the standard breed, the skin seems duller;
• in adults, the undercoat falls out, which adds rigidity to the outer hair;
• whiskers are also curled and shorter than whiskers in other species;
• different color options are acceptable, but due to the structure of the coat, the spots may merge;
• a healthy pet is distinguished by a cover without bald patches with curls elastic to the touch;
• the presence of sockets is not allowed by the standards;
• ears are wide;
• the tail is fluffy.

The following subspecies stands out separately: the Double Rex rat. According to some sources, the breed has not yet been included in the standards.

Rats are born on the condition that both parents have the corresponding “curly” gene. The undercoat in babies begins to fall out from early childhood, which provokes the appearance of bald spots and makes the breed less popular, although the coat seems plush and soft when touched.

The Dumbo Rex is a curly-haired rat with large, round ears.

Other features of rodents

Rex are highly prolific: offspring can be up to 20 babies. The gestation period does not exceed a month.

The size of the average rodent varies from 8 to 20 cm. Females rarely weigh more than 350 g, males are more powerful – their weight can reach 600 g. The size of the rodent is 17-25 cm, the length of the host reaches 12 cm. The shape of the muzzle differs from standard rats: it is wide and dull.

Rex rat behavior and habits

Curly rats are great as a pet. She is perky and cheerful, and at the same time easily shows affection and loves to play with her owners. The main advantages of Rex:

• remember the “main” owner and demonstrate devotion to him;
• easy to learn different tricks;
• they love not just spending time with their owners, but playing with them.

The advantages of the species are undemanding maintenance, rats easily adapt to the daily routine of the owner.

Curly-haired pasyuki are curious. When letting them out for a run around the apartment, you should be especially careful not to crush them with a door or step on the animals.

Features of home content

Mobility is important for a rat, so it needs a spacious home where it can run comfortably, without limiting itself in outdoor games. Given the high sociality of the species, it is recommended to start several individuals at once.

If it is possible to keep only one curly-haired rat, its cage should contain:

• swing;
• house;
• vines;
• various items for entertainment.

Animals are omnivorous, however, for good health, it is required to add to the diet: ready-made industrial feeds, vitamins and cereals.

The animals are easy to care for: it is enough to change food regularly and clean the cage daily. Twice a month, the “apartment” must be disinfected. Experts recommend giving food in unequal portions: leave most of it for the evening.

Clean water should be constant, and then a cheerful pet will entertain the owner with funny games every day.

Video: double rex rat

We recommend reading interesting articles about rat breeds “Red-eyed albino rats” and “Husky rats”.