What are curly rats called?

What are curly rats called?

Curly rats are predominantly known as Rex rats.

Understanding Rex Rats: The Curly-Coated Companions

Rex rats are a distinctive variety of pet rat recognized for their unique curly coats. Much like "Rex" varieties in other animals such as cats, guinea pigs, and rabbits, this genetic trait gives them their characteristic appearance.

Key Characteristics of Rex Rat Fur

Rex rats possess several unique features that distinguish their coats:

• Curly Fur: The most defining feature is their soft, dense, and visibly curly fur. This curl can range from a gentle wave to a tight crimp, often giving them a "wooly" feel, especially in male rats.
• Few Guard Hairs: Unlike standard rats, Rex rats have very few, if any, guard hairs. These are the coarser, straighter hairs that typically provide protection to the undercoat, and their absence contributes to the Rex rat's soft, plush texture.
• Curly Whiskers: A charming and easily recognizable characteristic of Rex rats is that their whiskers are also often curly, adding to their overall unique look.
• Potential Hair Loss: It's common for Rex rats to experience some hair thinning or loss as they mature or get older, which is a normal aspect of their coat type.

Variations within the Rex Type

While "Rex rat" is the general term for a curly-coated rat, there are recognized variations that showcase different degrees of curl and coat density:

• Standard Rex: These rats feature a uniform, dense curl across their entire body.
• Double Rex: Resulting from inheriting the Rex gene from both parents, Double Rex rats often have an even more sparse and very curly coat. They may appear almost bald in patches, with fur that can regrow and shed in cycles, giving them a unique "peach fuzz" feel.
• Velveteen: Sometimes considered a distinct type, Velveteens are known for a softer, less wiry curl than some Rex lines, often described as plush or velvety to the touch.

Caring for Your Curly Rat

Caring for a Rex rat is similar to caring for any other pet rat, though their unique coat might have minor considerations:

• Grooming: Rex rats generally self-groom effectively. Their fur texture might make them less prone to matting compared to long-haired breeds, but regular checks for cleanliness are always beneficial.
• Skin Health: Due to the reduced guard hairs and potential for hair loss, it's advisable to monitor their skin for dryness or irritation, particularly as they age.

Comparing Coat Types: Rex vs. Standard

Here's a quick comparison of key differences between a standard rat's coat and a Rex rat's coat:

For more information on different types of pet rats and their unique characteristics, you can refer to reputable pet care resources like PetMD.