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Chameleon - Critical Health Issues & Symptoms

Writer's picture: LIBEVCLIBEVC

Your chameleon is the gem of your eye. Naturally, you want to make sure your pet has the proper care and treatment. Chameleon health issues can come on suddenly, so how do you know what is dangerous, and what can wait? Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic offers full-service care for your exotic pets including first-time health checks, regular wellness exams, emergency services, behavior consults, and grooming.


Chameleon and reptile vet | Long Island bird and exotic pet vet

Signs your chameleon needs a veterinarian

  • Obvious injuries - broken bones or open wounds.

  • Respiratory concerns – labored breathing or gasping for air/open mouth breathing.

  • Changes in behavior – lethargy, decreased climbing, or decreased eating/defecation

  • Eyes/nose/mouth concerns – discharge from area, swelling, skin irritation, or other changes

  • Changes in skin color – abnormal color changes, skin lesions, or lumps

  • – Difficulty gripping when climbing, falling off perches, or difficulty balancing

Chameleon Care Tips

  • Proper housing – Chameleons are sensitive to the environments that they are housed in, so it is important create and maintain a proper set-up.

  • During examinations we will go through a detailed husbandry and care discussion with you to understand the patient’s environment, as well as address any changes that should be made to ensure your pet is set up for success!

  • Some basic care guidelines can be found below:

  • Provide a screened in enclosure rather than a glass aquarium

  • Avoid woodchips, dirt, or moss substrates. Use paper towels or a plain plastic/glass bottom.

  • When feeding live insects, do not leave insects alone with your chameleon in the tank.

  • Providing water for a chameleon is most effectively done through daily misting and using a “drip” system, as well as providing faux foliage with appropriate surface area for water droplets to form.

  • Medical care – Yearly wellness exams are recommended for all of our patients, both healthy pets and those with chronic conditions. It is important to not delay medical care if you have concerns about your chameleon

LIBEVC has the expertise and training to handle chameleon health issues

There are estimated to be over 160 species of chameleons worldwide and they have unique anatomy and medical needs. Being seen by an exotics specialty clinic is important to ensure your chameleon is getting appropriate medical care. LIBEVC offers advanced diagnostics, imaging, and surgical care with advanced technologies, as well as general wellness exams.


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