How to Look After a Chameleon

Chameleons are a distinct and colorful species that can change color to blend in with their surroundings, control temperatures, and communicate with each other. They can also change color depending on whether they are stressed or happy.

Caring for a chameleon necessitates adequate natural habitats which include large cages to simulate their drive to climb, as well as privacy and a range of temperatures put up around their abode. They also require a gut-loaded and calcium-supplemented diet. If you’re prepared to devote the time and effort to properly care for this lovely creature, it might be the perfect companion for you.

Caring for Your Pet Chameleon

Behavior and Temperament

Younger chameleons are typically a brown or dull grey colour with a small change in hue. At five months, the mature colour and ability to change hues appear, and a range of colours, including black, turquoise, blue-green, and green, may be detected.

Changing hues can assist chameleons to regulate their body temperature, hiding, and communicating together. Chameleons, like horned lizards, change colour by responding to a series of stimuli, including the proximity of yet another chameleon, light, temperature, stress, excitement, and others. For instance, a dark brown hue transitioning to black chameleon is often agitated, whereas brighter hues imply a happy temperament.

Chameleons use their tongues to catch prey. Chameleons can catch insects from a long distance because their tongues may well be 1.5 times their body length. They mostly devour insects, however, some may also ingest leaves and small invertebrates.

What Do Chameleons Eat?

Chameleons appear to thrive on a wide range of insects, so try to give your pet as many different kinds of insects as possible. Wax moths, crickets, roaches, mealworms, and wax worms are all excellent food sources.

Prior to feeding, prey food should be gut loaded with calcium and sprinkled with a nutritional calcium supplement. Chameleons will consume certain healthy leafy greens (avoid spinach, lettuce, and cabbage) as well as other vegetables and fruits in limited amounts.

Chameleon Habitat

Chameleons are tough to take care of due to their natural proclivities. They are arboreous, meaning they exclusively live in trees, so need cages with enough foliage for hiding and climbing.

For larger chameleons, a cage of 3 ft by 3 ft by 4 ft high should be provided; nevertheless, the larger the space, the better. To avoid toe injuries, use a cage that is protected on three sides, preferably with vinyl-coated wires or poly mesh.

Common Health Issues

Numerous chameleons are deficient in vitamin A and calcium, which is typically the result of having a poor diet. They are also prone to mouth decay, stomatitis, a condition marked by redness inflammation, and excess drooling of saliva or around the mouth.

Another common illness in chameleons is a metabolic bone illness. As a result of this disease, the chameleon’s bones grow porous and can be fatal if not properly treated. They may have a loss of appetite and appear lethargic.

Raw Food for Your Chameleon

The chameleon is not commonly regarded as a good pet since it requires a lot of care and attention and does not like being touched or even held. It does require a lot of space, performs best when maintained as the only chameleon in an enclosure, and requires a daily meal of insects.

This color-changing reptile is fascinating, and if you are ready to put in the work, you will be rewarded with a lovely and engaging little companion. Always remember to get your frozen insects and other raw food products from Kiezebrink. Browse our range today.