Chameleons are amazing creatures, and lets me honest are super cute but they aren’t the best pets for everyone. You need to be a responsible caretaker for these reptiles. Chameleons aren’t as popular as dogs and cats, they require a bit more care and attention compared to other types of animals.
Chameleons are fascinating creatures and we understand whey people want to keep them as pets.
One thing to remember is that Chameleons are very difficult to maintain and inexperienced reptile owners should not start with this reptile. Having said that, they are also not the most difficult exotic pet to take care of.
Chameleons don’t cuddle. If you’re looking for a cuddly pet or one that likes to be held, then look elsewhere! In a nutshell, chameleons make good pets, but please do your research before purchasing. They are expensive as you need good housing, heaters, lighting, food, water, vet visits and more. Find out how to take care of these great pets.
HERE ARE SOME GREAT TIPS IN TAKING CARE OF YOUR PET
How do I set up a chameleon habitat?
Chameleons should be housed individually.
- Choose a well-ventilated terrarium or screened enclosure that’s at least 16 x 16 x 30 inches.
- Line the bottom of the habitat with reptile carpet, 2 to 3 inches of coconut fiber or reptile bark. Spot clean the floor material frequently and completely change it at least once a month.
- Include rocks and real or artificial branches purchased from a store to elevate your pet—no closer than 8 inches—to the terrarium’s heat source. Branches should be sturdy and just slightly larger in diameter than the chameleon’s grip.
What do pet chameleons eat?
- Feed your chameleon crickets, or waxworms daily. Only offer as much as the chameleon can consume by the end of the day. Remove any leftovers.
- Dust insects with a calcium supplement twice a week.
- Veiled Chameleons should also get appropriate greens, such as collards or mustard greens, once daily. Offer only as much as the Veiled Chameleon can eat in 4 hours, then remove any leftovers.
- Chameleons do not drink from a dish. Instead, they hydrate by licking water from their skin and habitat so be sure to mist the habitat regularly.
How can I keep my chameleon healthy?
You should not handle your pet chameleon for 3 to 4 days, while they adjust to their new home. If you notice any of the following signs during or after your chameleon’s settling-in period, contact a veterinarian or a PetSmart store associate:
- Runny droppings for more than 2 days
- Eating or drinking less; weight loss
- Swollen joints
- Discharge from the eyes, nose or mouth
- Shedding problems; discolored skin
- Increase in the amount of time spent hiding
PET SAFETY TIPS
- Thoroughly wash your hands before contact with your chameleon.
- Use caution when handling pets, and remember they may bite or scratch, especially when stressed.
- Supervise children around pets.
- All animals can carry viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases that are contagious to humans. Thoroughly wash your hands with warm, soapy water after contact with any pet, its habitat, or aquarium water. Adults should assist children with hand-washing.