Astrex Mice Information and Facts

Astrex mice are possibly the rarest breed of curly coated mice to be seen at shows or kept as pets. Their distinctive curly coat is the result of a particular gene. They look very different to the normal type of oat you expect to see on a mouse and are quite desirable as a result.

They are difficult to breed well. If you are looking to buy some you need to be very careful and do your due diligence to find a good breeder. Always find out as much about the history of the line of breeding and the mouse you’re looking at.

Astrex mice typically look cute with their bright eyes and short and curly coat. They are kept as pets, and they have a temperament you would expect from fancy mice.

Breeding Astrex Mice

As previously mentioned Astrex mice are rare, and this is partly due to how difficult they are to breed. Those curls that make the mouse so distinctive tend to straighten out as they age. Often within a few months.

The breeding process is best achieved with their own line and a line of mice with shorter hair. This helps the coat become curlier a few generations down the line and the curly hair will last longer.

The type of gene that the Astrex carries means that it’s not possible to have a pure breed and keeping the coats curly and long-lasting isn’t easy. Satin coats look really good and make for good show mice.

Keeping Astrex Mice as Pets

Keeping astrex mice as pets can be fun. Their coats give them a unique and interesting look, they certain turn heads when people see them. You need to follow all the usual guidelines with regard to keeping males and females.

Fancy mice make great pets for children and adults. They are easy to look after, and provide endless fun and entertainment. If you need any help setting up the environment at home for your mice I cover cages, food, and care in detail.

Astrex Mouse History and Gene Recognition

The first astrex mouse was a result of an unexpected mutation and the resulting curly fur happened. This is traced back to a Mr A Tuck from Essex, England. He was awarded the standard back in 1936 for the variety.

A geneticist isolated the gene responsible for the mutation known as a rex. This gene is the dominant gene for the astrex, and responsible for their look.

Image credit: www.tails.co.nz