Origin of the rex guinea pig
Like most breeds of guinea pigs, the rex guinea pig is native to the Andes in South America Although There are no reliable data on its birth, it is estimated that they could have emerged for the first time between 1200 and 1500 BC, probably in the territory where it currently extends through Peru, Ecuador, Colombia and BoliviaIn this region, it is usually called "guinea pig" in reference to the term quwi in the Quechua language, which was its traditional onomatopoeic name derived from the noise they usually emit.
Originally, these robust guinea pigs were domesticated and selectively bred for their meat, which is still eaten in some South American localities but very scarcely. Currently, their breeding in captivity is mainly intended for keeping as pets.
Physical characteristics of the rex guinea pig
Rex guinea pigs stand out for their large size and remarkable robustness, being one of the largest guinea pig breeds. In fact, the term "rex" that makes up its name is a clear reference to its privileged bearing. Adult males can reach about 45 cm in length, although the average size of the breed is around 30 cm. He althy body weight should be in the range between 1 to 1.5 kg., being proportional to the size of each individual.
At first glance, rex guinea pigs may look similar to teddy guinea pigs, but differ in their dense, woolly-looking coat, which is made up of hard and coarse hair, which gives them an even more robust appearance. Despite its bulk, the rex guinea pig's coat is quite short, generally being less than 1 cm longRegarding its coloration, several colors are accepted in its coat, but reddish, brown, whitish and cream tones usually predominate.
Other recognizable features of the rex guinea pig include its broad head, short face, and relatively long ears that are petal-shaped and often droopy. The absence of a tail, large and bright eyes and curly whiskers are also some characteristics that highlight the beauty of the rex guinea pig.
Rex guinea pig character
Like most guinea pigs, the rex guinea pig reveals a friendly, dynamic and very affectionate character, greatly enjoying being in the company and receive the caresses of their relatives. Although it is not particularly active like the Abyssinian guinea pig, it also needs daily exercise to expend its energy and maintain a balanced behavior. In addition, physical activity will be essential to manage a balanced weight, since rex guinea pigs have a certain predisposition to obesity
Rex guinea pigs tend to be naturally social, as they are gregarious mammals that live in groups or communities. However, they need to be socialized from their first stage of life to learn to relate to individuals and stimuli in their environment, preventing them from being excessivelyshy or skittish as adults.
Likewise, you should consider that, being quite sensitive animals, guinea pigs are usually very attentive to their surroundings in order to react quickly to any strange stimulus that puts their integrity at risk. Therefore, they can easily suffer from stress when they do not have a calm and positive environment.
Rex guinea pig care
Logically, a rex guinea pig will need all the essential guinea pig care to fully develop physically and cognitively. Before adopting a rex guinea pig, you will need to set up your home to receive it properly. To begin with, you will have to choose a cage appropriate to the size of your guinea pig, considering that it is a large and robust breed. Ideally, the rex guinea pig should have a large and enriched cage, where they can exercise, play and keep themselves entertained while they can't be loose.
Likewise, we advise you to let your guinea pig out of the cage at least two or three times a day, always in a safe environment. safe where you can run and explore freely for a long time. As we mentioned, physical activity will be essential to prevent overweight and its he alth complications in guinea pigs. It is also important that you spend some time playing and paying the necessary attention to your guinea pig, as your affection will be a key "ingredient" for its well-being.
On the other hand, you should make sure to maintain optimal hygiene in your guinea pig's cage and environment to prevent the proliferation of microorganisms and the accumulation of dirt. In addition to renewing the water and food every day, we recommend that you regularly check the cage to prevent food debris or wet hay from accumulating. Cleaning should be done once or twice a week, and at least once a month it will be necessary to completely disinfect your rex guinea pig's cage. On our site, we explain how to prepare and maintain a guinea pig's cage step by step.
Maintenance of a rex guinea pig's coat is quite simple, thanks to the short, thick coat that adheres well to the body. Generally, they do not tend to lose hair and you will only need to brush them once or twice a week to remove impurities and improve the shine of their coat. The guinea pig baths can only be offered when it is really dirty, avoiding bathing it more than once a month and always using products suitable for its hygiene.
Rex guinea pig feeding
What does the rex guinea pig eat? The diet of this breed must be based on the same pillars that guide a he althy diet for all guinea pigsBeing strictly herbivorous animals, their daily diet will be based on fruits and vegetables to fully supply the nutritional requirements at each stage of their lives. And logically, you should never include foods that are prohibited for guinea pigs in your pet's diet.
The hay must be available in the cage in an unlimited way, since it is essential to provide fiber and ensure good digestion for the guinea pigs. In addition, the rex guinea pig needs to consume foods rich in vitamin C, since its diet is the only source of this essential nutrient to strengthen its immune system and prevent serious conditions, such as scurvy in guinea pigs.
During the period of pregnancy and lactation, female guinea pigs will need to receive a high-energy, high-protein diet to allow the young to develop properly. On our site, you will find everything you need to know about the care and feeding of pregnant guinea pigs. Likewise, don't forget to consult a specialized veterinarian to choose the type of diet and the most appropriate amount of daily food for your rex guinea pig, considering its age, state of your body's he alth and specific needs.
Rex guinea pig he alth
Despite its robustness, the rex guinea pig is also a sensitive animal that can be affected by several common conditions in this species, such as fungi, infections and mange in guinea pigs. Therefore, they need to receive adequate care in their day-to-day life and have good preventive medicine to enjoy a he althy and happy life. We will go to the vet to make visits every 6 or 12 months. If you are suspicious that your guinea pig may be sick or you notice changes in its usual appearance or behavior, do not hesitate to quickly go to a specialized veterinarian in exotic animals or a veterinarian specialized in small mammals. If you can't find it, go to a regular vet.
