6-8 lb (2.7-3.6 kg).
long, curly rex fur
A Rex-type rabbit with a semi-long coat in which the curled hairs stand straight out from the body. It was bred to look like opossum fur and keeps the typical Rex character of shortened guard hairs.132
Rabbits keep themselves clean, so routine care is mostly regular hands-on checks of coat, nails and teeth.4
Needs a secure living area of at least 3m x 2m x 1m so it can hop, play, stretch, hide and exercise, with toys and foraging opportunities for enrichment.4
Hay should form the foundation of the diet, as constant chewing keeps the teeth worn down, with fresh leafy greens and a measured amount of pellets alongside. Carrots are best kept as an occasional treat.4
A social animal that should live with at least one other rabbit; a neutered male and female pair is often the easiest match.4
The Opossum was an attempt to create a rabbit coat resembling opossum fur. In England, T. Leaver produced a curly, long-coated rabbit around 1924, and in 1928 Joppich bred a single male with similar hair from a German short-haired litter. It remains a rare breed in the Rex section of the British standard.21
A typical home-care rhythm for an Opossum Rabbit. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Encourages rabbits to eat more hay while giving them a tasty treat.
How much: One skewer per rabbit per day
Recipe from PDSA
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Your Opossum Rabbit needs unlimited fresh hay every day, plus a measured portion of pellets and a daily handful of safe leafy greens. Furry Diary's starting plan is to refill hay daily and feed pellets according to the label and your vet's advice.45 Pet Wiki plan
Hay should make up about 85% of the diet, with leafy greens and a small amount of pellets. Carrots are only occasional treats. Dangerous foods include avocado, chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and muesli mixes, never give these to your rabbit.456
No, rabbits keep themselves clean, so bathing is not needed. Routine care is regular hands-on checks of the coat, nails, and teeth. If the fur around the tail gets dirty, spot-clean gently; always ask your vet for advice on any skin issues.4 Pet Wiki plan
Yes, because of its long, curly rex fur, weekly brushing is recommended, and daily brushing during moulting. This helps remove loose hair and prevents matting. Furry Diary's starting plan includes weekly brushing, increasing to daily when shedding.132 Pet Wiki plan
Check nails every 6 weeks and trim if needed, your vet can show you how. Teeth never stop growing, so check them weekly and provide unlimited hay to keep them worn down. Furry Diary's plan suggests nail care every 42 days and a weekly teeth check.4 Pet Wiki plan
Your rabbit needs a secure living area at least 3m x 2m x 1m to hop, play, and hide, plus at least 4 hours of free-roaming exercise daily. Provide toys and foraging opportunities for enrichment.4 Pet Wiki plan
Opossum Rabbits are social animals and should live with at least one other rabbit. A neutered male and female pair is often the easiest match. Never keep them alone, they need a companion for well-being.4
Lifespan varies by individual and care, so there is no specific number for this breed. Ask your vet or a good breeder for guidance on what to expect with proper diet and housing.
This depends on the child's age and the rabbit's temperament. Rabbits can be nervous and need gentle handling. It's best to ask a good breeder or an exotic-pet vet for advice on whether this breed suits your family.
Proper handling is important to avoid injury. Always support the hindquarters and hold the rabbit securely but gently. Since techniques vary, ask your vet or a good breeder to demonstrate safe handling.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.
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