what are the main things i have to know in order to have a chameleon as a pet and keeping it healthy?

Question

im gettting one for my birthday in july and ive never had one before, so i want to keep it healthy and happy

Answer 1

Like others have said....they are very though to keep healthy...I really hope this is not your first rep.



They need rather experienced keepers to be healthy...



But if you are going to get one reguardless...here's some info...



The usually do not like to be held and should be kept solitary, they only do well when they are breeding, any other time, there should only be one in a cage...they Need LOTS of space and hiumidity...

I dont want to write a novel, so here are some sites to help...



http://www.martinsreptiles.co.uk/ukchams/calyptratus_caresheet.htm



http://www.geocities.com/chameleoncreatures/veiled.html



http://oror.essortment.com/chameleonscare_radb.htm



You can find tons of sites with info for you...And PLEASE find a good Reptile Vet befor you get one...talking to a vet about it is a great idea also...before you get one...they are no joke, one of the hardest reptiles to take care of...



Hope this helps...GOOD LUCK!!!

Answer 2

They can be tough ! I would not suggest a chameleon for your first reptile! You would learn a bunch with maybe a fat tail or leopard gecko first! They are a bit easier for a novice! Chameleon first off are a lot of money ! Next they require a trained eye to notice many of things a novice just would not see.. like stress, over feeding ,, underfeeding,, humidity levels,, etc.. yes these also come into play with geckos, yet they are not as sensitive over all ! Geckos also can be more of a handling pet , not saying chameleons are not , but they do require much more work! good luck with any choice you make and read it's all free on the net!

Answer 3

I would say the main thing you need to know is are you ready for a chameleon? Do you have any herp experience? Chameleons are NOT a pet for the first time or even for those with medium herp experience. They are for very advance herp keepers and even then it can be hard to keep them alive. You really have to know what you are doing with them and always have to be on the ball!! If you are DEAD set on having one RESEARCH RESEACH and then do some more. I recommend an easier Lizard as a pet.. less heartache in the end!

Answer 4

Get a book from your local pet store on the care and feeding of reptiles, they require specialized care, and can dehydrate very fast. Talk with a vet in your area about the care of the reptile, with dedication, you will have a wonderful pet for many years.

Answer 5

Make sure you have plenty of information BEFORE you buy. Buy from a reputable dealer (you'd be shocked at how some are imported...) make sure that the sales person can answer your questions. Once you get the little one home, make sure you provide an environment that is stable in temperature and (VERY important) if you keep him in a tank, keep it immaculate. They are very susceptible to mildew and too much urine. Many reptiles are lost due to ignorance.