| Weight: | 700-1200 grams |
| Lifespan: | 5-8 Years |
| Colors: | Both solid and pattern variations of brown or white are available |
| Temperament: | Kind, gentle, and tranquil |
Rex Guinea Pig is a well-loved and common guinea species. The Rex Guinea Pig has a short, wavy, hedgehog-like coat. Rex guineas can be loved and handled by anyone. They are great pets for children who can be responsible. Their stubble-like, short coat protects them from the water. Some Rex guineas can have a longer, wavier coat. They are a low-maintenance breed of Guinea due to their short hair.
They can grow to between 20-40cm in height and can live up to seven years. Their thick, woolen fur is thick, and has large, droopy ears. This gives them a friendly, cute appearance. They make a great pets for children and first-time owners.
Three Little-Known Facts about Rex Guinea Pigs
1. They grow their toenails very quickly
Rex guineas don’t require much grooming and brushing. However, their toenails grow faster than other breeds. To prevent ingrown nails from becoming infected, they should be clipped regularly.
2. They possess a recessive genetic gene
The unique recessive gene responsible for the Rex guinea’s coarse and short hair is what causes its short hair.
3. Rex guineas are very similar to Teddy guineas
The origin of the Rex guinea is unknown. They are nearly indistinguishable from “teddies”, as they share this recessive gene. The Rex has a curlier nose and eyes, which can be used to distinguish them.
You Need to Be A Rex Guinea Pig Owner
Food & Diet Requirements
Rex guineas can survive on their own and have no special dietary needs. Important to remember is that guineas can’t make their own vitamin, so they must be fed it regularly, preferably daily. Pellets of high quality are the best food for guineas as they provide all the nutrients, vitamins, and fiber required for a healthy diet. A guinea can also enjoy occasional vegetables and leafy leaves. However, fresh fruits can be high in sugar and should not be given in large quantities to guineas.
Avoid eating commercial food that contains artificial flavors and colors, seeds, or nuts. These should be used as occasional treats and not a daily habit. Commercial pellets may contain high-fiber hay, but you should always have fresh timothy Hay on hand for your Guineas. This hay should not have been chemically treated.
All guineas need to have access to fresh, clean water.
Exercise
Whatever breed, regular exercise is important. They should have a large enough enclosure to run around in. Rex guineas can be social and playful so they should only be kept in pairs. While other small rodents may benefit from an exercise bike, it can be harmful to a guinea’s back and should not be used.
Grooming
The short, coarse hair of the Rex guinea is very hardy and doesn’t require much maintenance. It is recommended that they get a good brushing once a month and a bath every other year. Rex guinea nails grow faster than other breeds and are more prone to getting ingrown nails. They will require regular care and trimming, otherwise, they could become ingrown and can cause infection.
Health and Conditions
Severe Conditions
Rex guineas can still have serious health problems, despite being a hardy and tough breed. Their fast-growing nails can become ingrown if they aren’t kept trimmed regularly. This could lead to infections and other walking problems. Over-eating fruit and vegetables can lead to obesity and diabetes, which can be deadly. Diarrhea can also be caused by too many sugary and wet foods, which can lead to rapid dehydration.
Minor conditions
Vitamin C deficiency can cause hair loss in guineas if they don’t get enough vitamin C. Without fresh hay, guineas can develop digestive problems and tooth issues.
Last Thoughts
Rex Guinea Pigs are social, gentle, and affectionate. They love to be petted and have great personalities. They make great pets and are friendly and curious, which makes them ideal for children. They love the interaction with people and need plenty of space because they are active.
Rex guineas require little maintenance and are a great choice for new owners.
Are Rex guinea pigs social?
The Rex Guinea Pig or Cavie is a popular pet due to its short, thick wavy coat and hedgehog-like look. This Cavie is well-known for its kind, peaceful, and tranquil demeanor. They enjoy being touched and given pats, making them an ideal companion for children who are gentle with them.
Are Rex guinea pigs aggressive?
Rex guinea pigs seldom bite unless they are threatened, dissatisfied, or afraid. However, there are a few reasons why Rexes might nip or lash out, which I’ll go over in more detail below. If your pet nips you while you’re holding them, it might be because they confused you for food.
Is guinea pig feces poisonous?
Guinea pig feces frequently include microorganisms that are dangerous to humans. Salmonella is a common example, as it frequently causes fever in people. If you have a pet guinea pig, it is better to avoid direct touch when cleaning the excrement.
Can guinea pigs identify you?
They have, however, been demonstrated to enjoy interaction with their human kin in the same way. They want to see, smell, and hear us when we are in their company. This implies that guinea pigs identify their owners.
Do guinea pigs enjoy being stroked?
Most guinea pigs loathe touching because it stimulates basic predatory instincts. In the wild, anything that swoops down to grab a guinea pig intends to devour it. Even after decades of domestication, your pig may mistake your oncoming hand for a condor’s talon and flee in fear.
Will you snuggle with guinea pigs?
There is no disputing that guinea pigs are loving pets who like cuddling with their owners. But, like with all good things, it requires time and patience. But, believe us when we say, your perseverance will pay off in the end.
Do guinea pigs enjoy kissing?
Many guinea pigs appreciated having the top of their heads kissed. They will comprehend your love and affection, but they will not express it in the same way. They express their love by licking you.
Do you get kisses from guinea pigs?
Kissing. Despite the fact that most people believe licking to be the animal counterpart of kissing, guinea pigs really offer human-like kisses! They are not nibbling since they do not utilize their teeth. Instead, they nip you lightly and repeatedly with their lips for a split second.
Do guinea pigs require bathing?
Guinea pigs, unlike humans, only require bathing 2 to 4 times each year. Bathing is seldom recommended for hairless types due to their unusually sensitive skin and trouble controlling their temperature.
Are Rex and Teddy the same guinea pig?
A Teddy guinea pig’s coat is somewhat softer than that of a Rex guinea pig. The softer coat of a Teddy guinea pig is generally characterized as “bouncy,” but the coat of a Rex guinea pig is “coarse” and “springy.” Fur on Rex guinea pigs grows toward the back.