Are you considering getting a reptile? Veiled chameleons are very pretty and fascinating, and may be a good choice. However, you’ll want to do some research first, as these pretty lizards may not be right for everyone. Read on as a Conyers, GA vet discusses caring for a veiled chameleon.
Veiled chameleons are quite fascinating. Because their eyes actually swivel, they can look in any direction without moving their bodies or heads. These guys are not exactly tiny: they can grow to be about two feet long. Chameleons live up to five years with proper care, so make sure you are ready to commit to your scaled pal for that long. Veiled chameleons can change color, which is very interesting to see. However, they aren’t exactly cuddly, so you won’t want to handle your chameleon too much.
Chameleons are omnivores, and eat both meat and produce. Your pet’s diet will consist mostly of insects, such as roaches, crickets, and waxworms, which you’ll need to offer daily. You’ll have to dust these creepy-crawlies with nutritional powder before giving them to your lizard. In addition to the bugs, your chameleon will need leafy greens, such as collard greens. For water, you’ll want to use a mister and a dripper, so your reptilian buddy can drink from his plants. Ask your vet for more information.
Your pet will need a comfortable, suitable habitat. Chameleons do have specific environmental requirements, so you will need some special heating and lighting equipment. Like many reptiles, chameleons need hot and cool zones. The warm end of your tiny dinosaur’s cage should be about 100°F, and the cooler part should be around 70°F. Your scaled friend will also need lots of climbing branches and/or a ficus tree; a hide box with some sphagnum moss in it; and some nontoxic leaves and plants to hide in. For substrate, you can use alfalfa pellets, sphagnum moss, or other suitable substrates. Ask your vet for specific advice on setting the habitat up.
Keep a close eye out for signs of illness. Some common ones include weight loss; lack of appetite; lethargy; visible swelling or lesions; trouble breathing; unusual waste; and eye problems. Contact your vet immediately if you notice anything amiss.
As your Conyers, GA vet clinic, we’re happy to offer veterinary care to veiled chameleons. Please contact us anytime!
