Adding a Chameleon to Your Family? Let’s Get You Set Up!

(photo credit: MDigitalArtStudio / shutterstock.com)

If your spatial setup and time constraints don’t allow for the maintenance required for a dog or cat, that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to live pet-free. In fact, the pet industry has opened up exponentially to those “other” critters that don’t need outdoor walks, training, treats, or even for you to clear space on your bed each night. And, we’re not talking bunnies, hamsters, gerbils, or rats.

Think chameleons. Yes, that color-changing lizard is gaining in popularity, and while it does require a little research, appropriate habitat set-up, and dedication to their unique care… they’ll never bark at the neighbours or cough up hairballs on your new rug.

Let’s Look at What a Chameleon Is and Isn’t

So, they aren’t warm and fuzzy – physically or personality-wise. Truth be told, chameleons do best when left alone to be observed rather than handled. Yes, unlike puppies or kittens, they are not naturally affectionate, nor do they appreciate your attempts to socialize them by touching or picking them up. In fact, this fascinating lizard is in his happiest of happy places when he’s inside his enclosure… and you’re not.

Now, with over 200 species out there, you want to ensure you fall in love with one that has been deemed “suitable for beginners” by those in the know. That’s because the required investment of time, money, and care can be daunting for first-timers and downright overwhelming if you’ve lined up a chameleon species that grows too big or requires a level of care beyond your ability.

Finding a Species Compatible with Your Lifestyle

Those considered to be ideal for the novice lizard owner include the Veiled chameleon, which can grow up to two feet in size and live up to seven years. This big boy is followed by smaller variations, including the Panther and Jackson’s chameleons that will grow up to 12 inches in size and lastly the pint-sized Pygmy chameleon that, while just four inches in length, also has the shortest lifespan of just two to three years.

While some are fairly adaptable in terms of temperature and humidity levels, others require much more specific care, so do your homework before bringing your new family member home.

Investing in the Right Equipment

Let’s start with finding the perfect enclosure for your scaly friend. Because chameleons are an arboreal species – meaning they spend the majority of their life in trees and forest canopies – you want an enclosure that focuses on vertical space rather than horizontal. Because your little guy is going to want to climb, climb, climb.

Not sure how vertical? From a size standpoint, something like a Veiled Chameleon would do well in an enclosure measuring roughly 24 inches square and 48 inches in height.

And unlike geckos or other lizards, chameleons require substantial ventilation, so don’t even think about repurposing that old aquarium of yours. Your colourful lizard will need an enclosure with mesh or screened sides that allow air to move continuously through, eliminating potential respiratory infections. For that, we vote for this screened cage from Zoo Med. A large front door ensures easy access and corrosion-resistant anodized aluminum screening will last forever.

Now, chameleons have something called a prehensile tail that essentially acts as a fifth limb. Between that and their tiny, grasping feet, being able to climb is a must for them. And that means loading up his enclosure with lots of tall plantings that he can move around through, hide in, and climb. But did you know that his ability to move to different heights not only offers exercise but helps him seek out different temperature and humidity levels?

For enclosure “décor”, we love this mix of non-toxic artificial leaves, plants, and vines that tuck neatly into his pen and provide the height and habitat necessary for him to feel comfortable. But humidity is also a must-have for chameleons, and that comes from real vegetation. So, consider padding your enclosure base with something like this live sphagnum and sheet moss. Other plants that are safe to add to a chameleon’s space include the fast-growing Pothos and foliage-dense Umbrella plant.

Other factors you need to consider, in addition to providing a humidity level of 50-70% - is warmth. Chameleons thrive in a warm environment of between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit (and just under that at nighttime), and the only way to achieve this is through a basking light that delivers both warmth and something called UVB rays. UVB rays are important because they help your chameleon synthesize vitamin D3 to process calcium and maintain healthy bones. Ticking both boxes is this 15-inch ventilated dual lamp with two independent switches and plugs that allow you to customize the level of heat and types of light. Perfect for hanging from the top of the enclosure or hooking on the side.

Because a chameleon’s natural habitat is high in moisture, it’s important to mimic that same environment when setting him up in his new enclosure. Humidity helps them remain hydrated, supports their respiratory system, and helps when shedding. So, it’s critical to their overall health and well-being, and if you’re unsure how to achieve and maintain optimal humidity, this digital humidity metre measures in both Fahrenheit and Celsius and features an easy-to-read digital display. Best of all, it measures levels every 10 seconds, so you can’t go wrong.

And lastly, it’s important to understand what your new pet enjoys as treats, but also what he needs to stay healthy. A protein-rich diet that is high in calcium and low in fat is essential. Add a variety of live and dried insects for protein, as well as green leafy vegetables and bits of sweet potato for Vitamin A. Occasional bits of fruit can be the treat. Helping to keep what seems complex, super-simple is this double pack of dehydrated mealworms. High in protein, easy to dispense, and with no refrigeration required, you’re ensuring your chameleon gets the nutrition it needs.

Now all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the colorful antics of your new best buddy.