How to Raise a Pet Chameleon

Chameleons can make fun and somewhat unusual pets. Before you pick out your first chameleon, make sure you research their care and learn everything there is to know about the reptile. Your new chameleon companion could live as long as 10 years, so raising it can become a daunting responsibility. Once you've decided to have a chameleon--or several--there are steps you'll need to follow to raise it properly.

Things You'll Need

  • 30-gallon vertical vertical screened-in terrarium
  • Wire cage measuring 36-inches high, 36-inches long, and 18-inches wide
  • Rodent bottle
  • Watering drip system
  • Insects
  • Rocks
  • Branches
  • Full-spectrum light
  • Vitamin and mineral supplement (optional)
  • Humidity gauge (hygrometer)
  • Thermometer
  • 1 or more chameleons
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up your terrarium. A 30-gallon vertical screened-in terrarium is suitable for one chameleon. An alternative for a single chameleon is a cage that is at least 18-inches wide, 36-inches long and 36-inches wide. More chameleons will require additional space.

    • 2

      Position the full-spectrum lighting system to provide good coverage of the terrarium. Place plants in the cage in strategic areas to provide shade. Include clinging vines, rocks and small branches for climbing. Adult female chameleons also require dirt for nesting.

    • 3

      Install the hygrometer and thermometer to monitor heat and humidity. About 82 degrees and 50 to 70 percent humidity is usually good for all types of chameleons. Provide at least one area of the terrarium that is around 71 degrees, so it can cool off.

    • 4

      Include a watering system, such as a rodent bottle or a drip system. Create your own drip system by filling a plastic bottle with water and poking a hole in the lid. Turn it upside down and secure it in the terrarium. Add a vitamin and mineral supplement to the water.

    • 5

      Stock up on insects like crickets, fruit flies, moths and meal worms at your pet store. Consumption varies, but some chameleons might eat 15 crickets each day and even more during growth spurts. Consider raising your own feeder insects to save money and always have a supply on-hand.

    • 6

      Obtain your chameleon. Check out pet stores, online ads or your local paper. Inexperienced owners might prefer a veiled or panther chameleon, since they can be easier to care for. The reptile should be six weeks or older, without obvious signs of health problems, such as sunken eyes, weak grip, mouth breathing and lethargy.