What Questions Should I Ask When Buying a Chameleon? 12 Essential Questions

Chameleons are some of the most fascinating and uniquely beautiful exotic pets you can own.

Their mesmerizing eyes, colorful skin, ability to change colors, and interesting behaviors make them endlessly entertaining to observe.

However, chameleons also have very specific care requirements that make them more demanding to keep than typical beginner reptiles.

Doing your research and asking the right questions is absolutely essential before deciding if a chameleon is the right pet for you. Bringing home a chameleon on impulse or without understanding their needs is a recipe for disaster and will likely end with a sick or deceased pet.

This complete guide covers the 12 most important questions every potential chameleon owner should get definitive answers to before making the commitment to buy one of these intriguing reptiles.

1. Why Do You Want a Chameleon?

The very first question to ask yourself is why you want a chameleon in the first place. Chameleons require a significant investment of time, effort, space, and money to keep them healthy.

So you need to be sure you are getting one for the right reasons.

Some good reasons to get a chameleon include:

• You are fascinated by reptiles and willing to provide specialized care.
• You want a unique pet to observe and interact with occasionally.
• You are ready for the responsibility of a more demanding exotic pet.

Bad reasons to get a chameleon include:

• You want a pet you can cuddle and play with frequently.
• You want an easy beginner reptile pet with basic care requirements.
• You think their colors and abilities are cool but haven’t researched their needs.

Chameleons can make great pets, but only for owners who understand their fundamental nature and are fully prepared to meet their needs. Casual impulse purchases of these exotic pets often end in sadness for both the owner and the chameleon.

2. What Species is Best for You?

There are over 160 species of chameleons inhabiting various parts of Africa, Madagascar, southern Europe, India, Sri Lanka and parts of the Middle East.

The most common species kept as pets include:

Veiled Chameleon

Native to Yemen and Saudi Arabia. One of the largest and most adaptable chameleon species. Can reach up to 2 feet in length. Often recommended as a good starter chameleon.

Key Facts:

• Lifespan: 5-10 years.
• Size: Up to 24 inches.
• Care difficulty: Intermediate. Hardy when setup properly.

Panther Chameleon

Native to Madagascar. Has incredible color changing abilities and striking patterns. Smaller than veiled chameleons.

Key Facts:

• Lifespan: 3-5 years.
• Size: Up to 20 inches.
• Care difficulty: Intermediate to advanced. Sensitive to improper husbandry.

Jackson’s Chameleon

Native to Kenya and Tanzania. Horned males are distinct looking. Less aggressive with calmer personalities.

Key Facts:

• Lifespan: 5-10 years.
• Size: Up to 10 inches.
• Care difficulty: Intermediate. Fairly hardy but requires specific care.

There are also pygmy chameleon species and Carpet chameleons which are smaller and have specialized needs. Do extensive research on the specific species you are considering and make sure you can provide the habitat, temperature ranges, humidity, nutrition, and other care requirements.

Some species like panther and carpet chameleons are not ideal for first-time owners.

3. Should You Get a Baby or Adult Chameleon?

Chameleons are available at different ages. Here are some key considerations with babies vs adults:

Baby Chameleons

• More affordable upfront cost.
• Fascinating to watch grow and develop.
• Require more frequent feedings and specialized care.
• More sensitive to improper temperatures and humidity.
• Can be housed together temporarily since less territorial.
• Quieter, less aggressive behaviors initially.

Adult Chameleons

• Usually cost more.
• Ready for a more regular feeding/care routine.
• Settles in faster – less transition stress.
• Health and personality established.
• Requires larger habitat sooner.
• More aggressive territorial behaviors.

If properly prepared for their needs, a baby chameleon can be a great choice. But they require extra attention and diligence those first few months. An adult may be lower maintenance, but check age and health carefully.

4. Is a Male or Female Chameleon Better?

Gender is another big factor to research:

Male Chameleons

• Larger size in most species.
• More elaborate horns and spurs.
• Brighter colors and more active displays.
• Can be aggressive/territorial to other males.
• Generally live longer lifespan.

Female Chameleons

• Tend to be slightly smaller and less colorful.
• No horns/spurs. Some species have traces.
• Not as aggressive but still territorial.
• Shorter lifespan due to egg laying demands.

If maximum color and displays are most important, select a male. Females are still lovely though. Avoid housing males together – serious fights can occur. Some species do well in female groups.

5. Where is the Best Place to Buy a Chameleon?

Once you decide on species, age, and gender – next comes selecting the individual chameleon.

Good options include:

Reputable Breeders

The best source for captive bred, healthy chameleons. Do research to find specialized chameleon breeders with excellent reptile husbandry practices and protocols. Ask lots of questions.

Benefits: Captive bred, well socialized, healthy animals. Breeder support.

Downsides: Higher cost. May need to ship.

Pet Stores

Check both major chains and specialty exotic stores. Look for healthy specimens from reputable suppliers, not wild caught imports.

Benefits: Convenient, inspect in person. Supplies available.

Downsides: Possible health/diet issues. Questionable origins.

Reptile Expos

Great for finding breeders and supplies, but be very selective purchasing animals. Quarantine new chameleons.

Benefits: Shop options. Compare breeders/prices.

Downsides: Stressful conditions. Health risks. Impulse purchases.

Online Stores

Order from reputable online exotic pet retailers with excellent feedback and healthy animals. Quarantine chameleons.

Benefits: Convenient. Nationwide selection. Reviews.

Downsides: Shipping risks. No in-person inspection.

Thoroughly research any prospective seller or store and ask for referrals. Never support questionable sellers just because the prices are cheap.

6. What Are Signs of a Healthy Chameleon?

Evaluating health is crucial when selecting your new chameleon:

• Bright, alert eyes. No discharge or swelling.
• Distinct coloring based on species. Rapid color changes.
• Smooth skin. No lesions, bites, or discharge.
• Clear nasal passages. No fluids or wheezing.
• Strong gripping ability on branches. Full use of hands/feet.
• Active tongue. Able to catch prey. No swelling.
• Clear vent area. No caking or discharge.
• Full tail. No kinks or bite marks.
• Muscular limb development. Normal bone structure.
• Confident movement and climbing ability.
• Good appetite. Healthy feces.

Any signs of lethargy, poor movement, mouth swelling, bone deformities, or other issues are major red flags. A healthy chameleon should be alert and reactive to stimuli but not stressed.

7. What Questions Should You Ask the Seller?

Don’t be afraid to thoroughly question anyone selling you a chameleon:

• What is the specific species, locale, age, and gender?
• Is it captive bred or wild caught? What is its full origin?
• What has the chameleon been feeding on? Any supplements?
• What are the temperatures, humidity ranges, and lighting provided?
• Has the chameleon been to a vet or been checked for parasites/illness?
• Why are you rehoming this chameleon? How long have you had it?
• Does the chameleon have any known health issues or concerns?
• Can you handle returns if health issues arise shortly after purchase?

A responsible seller will gladly answer all questions and try to match you with an appropriate chameleon. Beware if they seem secretive or get annoyed by questions.

8. What Supplies Are Included with the Chameleon?

Chameleons require specialized enclosures with lighting, decoration, and accessories.

When negotiating a purchase, find out exactly what is included:

• Enclosure – What type, size, condition? Sufficient for species?
• Lighting – UVB and basking lights needed. New bulbs?
• Heat/humidity – Is heating and misting equipment included?
• Plants/decor – Live or artificial vines and foliage for climbing and hiding.
• Water system – Dripper or mister to provide drinking water.
• Supplements – Any initial vitamin powders, gut load insects?

Ideally, the seller will have a complete setup appropriate for the specific species you can buy as a package deal. This takes the guesswork out of assembling what you need after purchase.

9. What are the Initial Chameleon Setup Costs?

The initial investment for your chameleon habitat and supplies will be significant. Budget at least $250 to $800+ depending on species and enclosure. Recurring costs for food, utilities, and incidentals can easily be $500+ annually. Understand this investment before committing.

Major setup costs may include:

• Large screen enclosure or reptile cage. $150-$500
• UVA/UVB reptile lighting. $50-$150
• Basking bulbs and fixtures. $40-$60
• Live or artificial plants and vines. $50-$150
• Drip system or mister. $30-$60
• Digital thermometer/hygrometer. $25-$40
• Reptile heating elements. $40-$150
• Water dishes, accessories, cleaning supplies. $30+

Some sellers provide starter kits with everything you need so ask what is included. Budget extra if buying components individually. Price shop without sacrificing quality.

10. What Are Estimated Monthly Care Costs?

In addition to the upfront habitat costs, you need to estimate ongoing monthly care expenses:

• Electricity – For lighting, heating, pumps. Can vary greatly.
• Feeder insects – Crickets, worms, roaches. $10-$40/month.
• Produce for gut loading – Vegetables for feeders. $5-$15/month.
• Supplements – Calcium, vitamins, etc. $10-$30/~2 months.
• Miscellaneous supplies – New bulbs, plants, cleaning tools. $5-$20/month.
• Vet visits – Annual exam, incidentals. $100-$300/year.
• Water – For drinking, misting. Depends on home use.
• Heating/cooling – If enclosure is in a heated/cooled room.

A reasonable budget to care for a single chameleon is around $50-$150 monthly depending on size. This is in addition to the initial setup costs. Can be lower or higher.

11. What Are the Best Vet and Health Practices?

Chameleons can be sensitive to illnesses and stresses. Having an experienced reptile vet and following best health practices is key:

• Locate an exotic pet/reptile vet before getting your chameleon. Confirm they have chameleon experience. Get an annual checkup.
• Quarantine new chameleons for 30-90 days before introducing to others. Have fecal test done.
• Disinfect enclosure between new inhabitants.
• Wash hands before and after handling. Be gentle and minimize stress.
• Provide proper temperatures, humidity, hydration, nutrition, light, and habitat décor.
• Keep handling to a minimum. Observe behaviors and appetite daily.
• Research common chameleon health issues and symptoms to watch for.
• Have testing and treatment plans in place if problems emerge.

Chameleons hide illness well. Stay observant for signs of distress including lethargy, swelling, poor appetite, or color changes. Having an exotic pet veterinarian you trust is essential for any chameleon owner.

12. Are You Fully Prepared for This Commitment?

Chameleons can have long captive lifespans between 5-10+ years depending on species. Make sure you consider:

• Time commitment for proper care and research.
• Financial commitment for enclosure, food, utilities.
• Space commitment for adequate sized habitat.
• Responsibility for providing optimal living conditions.
• Limitations on vacations/travel due to care demands.
• Arrangements if ever needing to rehome the chameleon.
• Emotional commitment if health issues emerge.

Caring for a chameleon is a long-term endeavor requiring dedication. If you have realistic expectations and are excited to provide everything required, the bond you form will bring joy for many years.

Do even more research before taking the plunge!

The Takeaway on Buying a Chameleon

Chameleons can make fascinating and interactive pets – but only for owners committed fully to their demanding and specific care needs.

Extensive research on the species, sourcing a healthy animal from a reputable seller, and preparing the best possible habitat setup will give you the highest chance of success and enjoyment.

Use this guide to ask all the critical questions before making the decision to buy a chameleon.