The Best Chameleon Cage to Buy
There isn't a long list of wonderful pets, and you just can't keep chameleons out. They're just amazing and there're so many reasons why people always love the idea of keeping chameleons as pets. But, you need to keep in mind that a chameleon is different from your average pet mainly because of their unique needs. Not only is their diet quite specific, they like to live in a specific environment too, and that's why finding the best chameleon cage is critical. Thankfully, you can find many top brands offering high quality chameleon cages, but the following options will certainly work better.
The Best Chameleon Cage: Our Top Picks
Zoo Med Repti Breeze Chameleon Kit
BEST for small chameleons
Rated by: Amber
Zilla Fresh Air Screen Habitat for Reptiles
BEST OVERALL
Rated by: Amber
Exo Terra Screen Terrarium
Best for durability
Rated by: Amber
1. Zoo Med Repti Breeze Chameleon Kit
Quick Summary
Rated by: Amber
If you're looking for one of the best chameleon cages for small chameleons, it seems that Zoo Med has the solution. It works for most species of chameleons and is better than most cages you can find on the market. The starter kits helps you arrange everything and provide your juvenile chameleons with the right habitat.
The size of the kit is 16 x 16 x 30 inches, which means it mainly works for smaller pets, like young chameleons. The good thing is that it comes with several accessories to help you use it for most species. It features a digital thermometer, a number of decorations, and tropical lighting kit. Though the kit looks good, it might not work perfectly in some climate conditions.
PROS
CONS
2. Zilla Fresh Air Screen Habitat for Reptiles
Quick Summary
Rated by: Amber
When you're looking for the best chameleon cages designed for durability, you may want to put your money on this cage. It's one of those cages that utilize black mesh as the main material, but its aluminum frame gives it the durability you desire.
The good thing about the combination of mesh and aluminum is that you have a light cage on your hand that you can move around easily. It features a PVC bottom, so you can easily place the substrate here. The bottom is water-resistant, which is good, but keep in mind that there's no separate door available for the substrate.
Another good thing is the availability of a cord access port, which means you don't need to make holes here to find access for wires. So, overall, it's a great cage, which is durable and stylish, and comes with a 90-day warranty.
PROS
CONS
3. Exo Terra Screen Terrarium
Quick Summary
Rated by: Amber
If you're looking for one of the most popular chameleon cages for your adult pets, it's time to bring home this product. The Exo Terra measures at 36 x 18 x 36 inches, so it's suitable for most species of chameleons.
In terms of durability, it impresses you with its black anodized aluminum frame. The front door is large enough to help gain access to the cage and its interior. The bottom comes with a swiveling door, which means you can easily place and remove the substrate tray whenever you like.
Overall, it's a great cage that serves as the best home to your chameleon, but bear in mind that its price may be a bit high, but it's well worth the investment.
PROS
CONS
FAQ - A Buyer's Guide
What Cage is Best for a Chameleon?
You need to select a chameleon cage depending on his size and needs. For instance, you can get away with a smaller cage if you're keeping baby chameleons only. Even in this case, the cage should be no less than 16 x 16 x 30 inches. But, keep in mind that a baby chameleon can stay in this cage for up to 10 months because you'll need a larger cage designed for adult chameleons.
It's worth mentioning though that some baby chameleons get bigger quite quickly, so you might have to switch cages after 8 months only. Keep an eye on the growth rate of your baby chameleon and be ready to change it when you notice that the cage is becoming a little too cramped from him. If there's enough space, your chameleon won't feel happy or feel safe. Going for screen-sided enclosures is usually a good idea for baby chameleons, and you can keep a couple of them in a cage, but know you'll have to look for a new cage after your baby chameleons have reached sexual maturity.
Also, bear in mind that your cage choice will vary depending on the gender of the chameleon. For instance, an adult male chameleon is much bigger than a female, so you need a big cage for obvious reasons. Going for screen-sided enclosures will again serve better here because they provide adult male chameleons with enough fresh air. You may want to avoid glass cages for adult males because they can cause respiratory issues. For an adult male, don't go for anything smaller than 2 x 2 x 4 feet. It may be a bit expensive, but it'll serve you well for years because your chameleon will continue to have enough space. You may have to customize it from time to time to ensure it stays comfortable for your chameleon because he's going to stay in around the clock.
In case of adult females, you can stick with a smaller cage if you like. For them, a cage of 18 x 18 x 3 feet will work just fine. But, be sure to opt for a much larger cage if you're thinking of keeping a pair of male and female chameleons in one cage. Moreover, you don’t just have to consider the size of the cage, as there are other considerations as well. For instance:
Ensure that it is durable and constructed for heavy use. Unless you opt for a cage made from high quality materials, you may notice your clever chameleon find a way to get out of it. At the same time, you need to make sure that the cage is capable of retaining humidity and heat but is properly ventilated as well.
Be sure to put your money on a cage that offers enough vertical space for your chameleon to climb and have some fun. It means that the cage you choose should be tall and have plenty of plants in it too.
Ensure that the chameleon cage you buy lets you customize it for lighting. Chameleons require at least 10 hours a day of UVB and UVA light. There needs to be plenty of basking areas as well. Keep these points in mind when customizing the cage.
What Size Cage Does a Chameleon Need?
Finding the right chameleon cage can be tricky because the choice will depend on the size and breed of your chameleons. If you're looking for something suitable for your male veiled chameleons, you may settle for something large. Keep in mind that an adult male veiled chameleon can grow up to be 2ft in length. On the other hand, females are slightly smaller, but they may also attain the length of 18 inches in most cases. You should keep these figures in mind when looking for a cage for your new family member.
While you can keep more than one chameleons in one cage, it's not a great idea once they've reached sexual maturity. You'll risk fighting and unnecessary stress on your chameleons. It's better to separate them after they're 8 months old. Because adult chameleons need plenty of air to survive, you may want to put your money on screen-sided enclosures. Glass aquariums may look good, but are hard to find in the right size. They also run the risk of stagnating air quality, which may leave your beloved pet with upper-respiratory infections.
For an adult veiled chameleon, the right enclosure is the one that's at least 2ft wide and long. Height matters a lot for chameleons, so you need to go with an enclosure at least 4ft tall. You can go with a slightly smaller cage for females, but again, the height shouldn’t be any less than 3 feet.
While you can always buy a large cage for juvenile veiled chameleons because you'll eventually need a larger one, there's nothing wrong in going for a cheaper and smaller cage for the first 7-8months of your chameleon's life. You can keep them in smaller screened enclosures that usually don't cost much, but opt for something that is at least 30 inches tall.
Besides considering the size, ensure that you pick a cage that helps maintain the right temperature in the cage. For instance, your chameleon will stay happy if the temperature is around 70F to 85F. The temperature needs to come down at night though – anything around 65F to 70F will do.
Why Do Chameleons Need Screen Cages?
You need to be very careful when picking a cage for your chameleon because you just can't pick any reptile enclosure or even a snake or lizard enclosure to keep your pet happy. Chameleon cages are designed specifically keeping the unique needs of your pet in mind. Therefore, a chameleon vivarium may work just fine in most cases.
Screen cages are beneficial because they provide ample light and fresh air. The interesting thing is that chameleon cages come with temperature gradients, which means the cage is usually hotter at one end and a lot cooler at the other, so your pet can decide where he wants to be. Large glass vivariums often work because the breeders know how to maintain stable light, air, and temperature in the enclosure. If you don't know about it, you should look for something else, like a snake enclosure or specifically designed chameleon cages for adults. Not being careful with glass vivariums could cause air to become stagnant, which can be harmful for the pet.
If you're looking for better reptile enclosures, you may want to go for a net cage or a terrarium. A terrarium may work because though it uses glass, it also uses some mesh to keep it less humid. It also provides your pet enough space to move around. A net cage, on the other hand, is a reasonably good choice, but you may want to avoid it if you're going for Yemen chameleons.
Going for larger chameleon cages is always better because you'll be able to use accessories to keep him healthy. For instance, you can use the right accessories to provide him with enough water. Remember, your chameleon needs water at least once throughout the day, but some may require more water, so you'll have to do it twice a day. Depending on the climate, their water needs would change as well. Keep in mind that in a drier climate, the water included in your chameleon cage would dry out quickly. So, keep these points in mind when buying screened chameleon cages.
How Do You Make a Chameleon Cage?
chameleon cages is the best option because the manufacturers know exactly what your pet needs and how much space will work just right for them. However, it's also true that these branded chameleon cages can be expensive, especially if you have to buy for multiple pets. You can surely make your own chameleon cage following any tutorial, and even turn an aquarium into a cage by making sure that it provides the right amount of fresh air to your chameleon.
Even if you're making a chameleon cage yourself, you should use the right accessories to make it comfortable. For instance:
Be sure to install a UVB/UVA fluorescent bulb, as it helps provide your pet with the calcium he needs.
Keep a humidity gauge handy because it will help keep an eye on the humidity level in your chameleon cages.
Use a dripping system to ensure that your chameleon gets enough water to deal with his hydration needs.
Use some kind of bedding or substrate to line the bottom of your chameleon cages because it will limit the amount of moisture it traps.
The Best Chameleon Cage to Buy
For chameleon cages, you have many options to choose from, but instead of going for any screen enclosures or glass screen vivarium, you'll be better off going with cages made specifically for chameleons. In case you're confused, you may put your money on Zoo Med Repti Breeze chameleon cage. It's large, it's affordable, and it provides good natural light to your pet. Try it!
About the Author Steven
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