Chameleon
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Various (Chamaeleo, Furcifer, Trioceros) |
| Origin | Africa, Madagascar, Southern Europe |
| Size | 4-24 inches (species dependent) |
| Lifespan | 3-10 years (species dependent) |
| Temperature Range | 70-85°F (21-29°C) |
| Humidity | 50-80% (species dependent) |
| Enclosure Size | 2x2x4 feet minimum (screen) |
| Care Level | Intermediate-Advanced |
| Diet | Insectivore |
| Temperament | Solitary, Easily Stressed |
Recommended for Chameleons
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ZooMed - Linear UVB and misting systems | ExoTerra - Screen terrariums | Fluker's - Feeder insects and supplements | Repashy - Calcium Plus ICB
Hydration Systems
ZooMed ReptiRain - Automatic misting system | ExoTerra Dripper - Drip system for drinking
Pick a species before you pick a cage
This page is the chameleon family as it shows up in pet shops, not one animal. Veiled, panther, and Jackson's chameleons are the common three, and each has a more specific page or a more specific need. Figure 4 to 24 inches and 3 to 10 years, because a tiny Brookesia and a large veiled male are both chameleons. Care runs from intermediate to advanced. They do poorly with a cage mate, and they stress easily. Both of those points hold across the group.
Screen cages, not glass boxes, are the usual home. The minimum listed is 2 by 2 by 4 feet, which is a veiled or panther adult size and nonsense for a pygmy. UVB, a basking branch, and water delivered as drips or mist are shared. Temperatures of 70 to 85°F are only a middle. Jackson's want cooler air. Veileds use a hotter bask. Copying one setup onto the other species is how chameleons die with a full cricket cup below them.
Insects, one animal, no outdoor release
They eat insects. Gut-load those insects and dust calcium. A fruit cup is not a veiled-chameleon diet and it is not a Jackson's diet either. House one chameleon where it cannot see another male. Handling is a stress for most of them. Watch the colors and the eyes instead. Do not release an unwanted pet. Several species have already become outdoor problems in warm climates.
Eyes sunk in, a lizard on the floor, or a week of missed feeds is urgent. Use the reptile appetite guide and a clinic from ARAV.
Chameleon questions
Which chameleon should I buy?
Name the species first. Veiled chameleons tolerate heat better. Jackson's need a cooler room. Panthers sit between them and vary by locale. A shop label that only says chameleon is not a care sheet.
Can two chameleons share a cage?
No. They are solitary and easily stressed. A pair in one screen cage is a fight or a courtship you did not plan, followed by a neglected animal.
How long do chameleons live?
Figure 3 to 10 years, because the species differ. Short lives are normal. A cage that is wrong makes them shorter.
Decision Guides for Chameleon
Use these only when comparing food, insurance, ownership budget, or beginner fit for this specific pet.