How to Get Mold Off Your Chameleon's Terrarium

Chameleons need warm habitats and moderate moisture. For example, the veiled chameleon, probably the species most commonly kept as a pet, requires a relative humidity of at least 50 percent. Warm, humid conditions happen to also be ideal for mold and other fungi, which may cause health problems for a chameleon. Mold removal is straightforward, but be careful not to inadvertently poison your chameleon in the process. That means most most cleaning products are out.

  1. Ventilation

    • The air in an enclosed space becomes stale quickly, providing an even better environment for mold. Ensure the housing has adequate ventilation. Preferably, chameleons should be kept in a purpose-built tall and vertical cage with at least one mesh side, Keeping a chameleon in a repurposed fish tank is asking for trouble, so if this is what you are doing, acquire a proper vivarium as soon as you can. To keep humidity levels high enough despite the air flow, mist the vivarium with dechlorinated water as required. Ensure you are keeping humidity levels within the correct range for the species with the use of hygrometer -- a simple device that measures the amount of moisture in the air.

    Daily Maintenance

    • Many chameleons won̵7;t drink from a water bowl. You need to mist instead. But you may provide a water bowl for drinking or to assist with humidity. Change the water daily. Remove uneaten food and feces as you notice them. If you see actual mold, you need to clean the tank properly and completely regardless of whether it is due for its weekly cleaning.

    Cleaning Preparation

    • Transfer your chameleon to a spare cage, preferably one with the same setup as his current home, before commencing cleanup operations. Chameleons do not like being handled, so take care when moving your pet for cleaning purposes. Preferably, move him together with the branch to which he is clinging rather than pick him up. If you do need to touch him, wash and rinse your hands thoroughly beforehand, to protect him, and afterward, to protect you.

    Cleaning Procedure

    • To prevent mold and bacteria, a full clean is necessary about once a week. Dispose of the substrate, move plants and accessories, and wipe down the bottom and sides of the tank, rinsing thoroughly if you used a chameleon-safe cleaning product rather than just plain water. Add fresh substrate and replace the accessories before replacing your chameleon.

    Considerations

    • Never use household cleaning products in the tank. They might kill fungal spores effectively, but they could also kill your pet. Chameleons are extraordinarily sensitive to any sort of pollution in the environment. Safe chemicals for disinfection are white vinegar diluted with water and specifically reptile-safe disinfectants available from specialist suppliers. Even with these substances, always rinse thoroughly and wait an hour or so before replacing your chameleon in the freshly cleaned tank.