Ensuring that your chameleon gets a suitable home is one of the most important things you can do as a pet owner. While chameleons are often given a bum rap for being fragile, they are incredibly hardy creatures in the right environment. The cage you make for your chameleon will be their home for the rest of their life, and a good cage will ensure a long and healthy life for your pet.
That said, how do you create the right chameleon enclosure setup? Read on to learn more about how to set up a cage for your miniature tree dragon.
How To Set Up a Chameleon Enclosure
The primary thing that you need to do when setting up a cage for a chameleon is to consider the following:
Type of cage
The best chameleon habitat should allow for an optimal balance between humidity, ventilation and natural light. Here are some of the most popular chameleon cages available:
- Mesh cage
A mesh cage is one of the best habitats you can consider for your pet. It will offer your chameleon good ventilation, prevent stale air from getting in and ensure your pet can access a comfortable environment.
- Wooden cage
A wooden chameleon cage is often designed using grapevine, driftwood or cork bark. It can also be filled with metal screening or mesh material. A wooden cage provides sufficient room for light penetration and air circulation.
- Glass cage
A glass cage is perfect for chameleon keepers living in cold areas, as it acts as a heat insulator. Using a glass cage in a warm place can harm your chameleon.
Size of the cage
The pet experts at Pets and Animals Tips suggest that the best cage size for a chameleon’s enclosure should be at least 18 inches wide and 30 inches tall. They also state that the bottom and walls of the cage should have non-slip silicone matting.
Cage location
The cage’s location is essential in setting up a chameleon habitat. It can impact the airflow, humidity and temperature of the enclosure. The pet experts at Pets and Animals Tips suggest that you should place your cage outdoors, in your garage shed or your room.
These experts warn against placing the cage near doors or windows as it can let bugs in. Placing the chameleon’s cage near doors and windows can also affect the humidity and temperature of the enclosure.
What Do Chameleons Need in Their Cage?
Chameleons require several things in their cage, including:
Heat lamp. Chameleons are cold-blooded animals, so they need an external heat source to regulate their temperatures. Therefore, ensure you put a heat lamp in your chameleon’s cage.
Substrate. Substrate will help absorb water and extra moisture and facilitate easy cleaning.
Artificial or real branches. These branches should be slightly larger in diameter than your pet’s grip. They should also be sturdy and not too close to the heat source.
UVB lighting. Lighting is incredibly vital to reptile growth and health. Therefore, make sure your cage has a UVB/UVA fluorescent bulb.
Appropriate food. Ensure your chameleon always has access to food. This food may include waxworms or crickets. Keep in mind that chameleons don’t drink water from a bowl; instead, they lick moisture from their habitat or skin. Thus, make sure to mist the enclosure regularly.
Wrapping It Up
Given that there are many things to consider and purchase, setting up a chameleon cage can be intimidating. However, with these product recommendations, you are just a few clicks away from setting up a simple and perfect cage for a chameleon.