Veiled Chameleon Care Sheet
AdvancedChamaeleo calyptratus · lizard
Veiled chameleons are visually striking but require precise temperature, humidity, and UVB gradients, along with a vertical screen enclosure and live plants. They are not beginner reptiles and are best suited for experienced keepers.
Quick care stats
Adult size12-24 inches
Lifespan4-8 years
Min enclosure24x24x48 inches (screen enclosure)
Basking temp85-95°F
Ambient temp72-80°F
Night temp65-75°F
Humidity50-70%
UVBYes - T5 HO 5.0 or 6% UVB (Ferguson zone 3-4)
DietInsectivorous: gut-loaded crickets, roaches, etc. dusted with calcium and multivitamin; juveniles daily, adults every other day.
HandlingHighly stress-prone; handling should be minimal and only when necessary.
What you need (full setup)
🔧 T5 HO UVB fixture (5.0 or 6%)Essential for vitamin D3 synthesis and preventing metabolic bone disease.🔧 Basking bulb (incandescent or halogen)Provides basking spot of 85-95°F to facilitate thermoregulation.🔧 Thermostat (for heat sources)Prevents overheating; controls basking temp precisely.🔧 Digital thermometer/hygrometer with probesAccurately measures temperature and humidity at multiple points in the enclosure.🔧 Paper towels or bioactive substrateEasy to clean (paper towels) or naturalistic (bioactive) for humidity and plant support.🔧 Branches and live plants (e.g., Ficus, Pothos, Dracaena)Provides climbing structure, hides, and hydration via leaf licking; reduces stress.🔧 Drip system or automatic misting systemChameleons rarely drink from bowls; rely on water droplets on leaves for hydration.🔧 Calcium (with D3) and multivitamin supplementsDusted on feeders to prevent nutritional deficiencies and metabolic bone disease.
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Common health issues
- Metabolic bone disease
- Respiratory infections
- Mouth rot
- Egg binding (females)
- Dehydration
⚠️ For any sign of illness (not eating, lethargy, swelling, retained shed), see a qualified exotics vet. Care sheets are general guidance only.