Double Rex
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Appearance
The Double Rex rat is easy to identify based on their very curly whiskers and their curly fur. They often have patches of baldness which grow fur again and lose fur again during their lifetime. Due to their curly fur, they have an almost wrinkled appearance which is similar to the Hairless Rat. Male Double Rex rats tend to have tighter curls than female Double Rex rats.
Colouring
Comes in any colour variation, but always has curly whiskers and fur.
Health
Having bald patches means Double Rex rats can sometimes suffer from dry, flaky skin as they have less fur to protect them from their own sharp claws when they scratch. Double Rex rats can suffer from a variety of diseases, most commonly involving the respiratory system. It is not uncommon for a rat to sneeze throughout the day as they have very sensitive noses, but if there is a build up of porphyrin (also known as ‘red tears’) around the eyes and the nose, this could be a sign of a serious underlying issue. Female Double Rex rats, like all female rats, are also prone to growing tumours.
Life Expectancy
1 - 3 years
History
So called due to having two Rex genes, the Double Rex was originally bred for its curly fur and whiskers and its especially docile temperament. Similarly to the Dumbo rat, the Double Rex was created through genetic mutation.