Chameleon laying on side

[Xeyana S]

Hi,
someone I know has a 5 month old male veiled chameleon.
His chameleon, Boris, lays flat on his side or on his back. When Boris's owner holds him Boris lays on his side and back.

Can you explain why he is doing this? The owner won't believe me when I say his chameleon shouldn't be doing that, because I am only 14 and he thinks I know nothing.

Thank you!

 

[Wowbango]

Well, I would first direct them to try and visit this forum for more information on his chameleon's condition.

He should ABSOLUTELY NOT being do this. Even when Chameleons sleep, they sleep right side up holding on to branches. If he's laying on his side, it could be a sign of MBD. Sounds like he can't support his own weight on his feet/legs. I would say this requires immediate veterinary attention.

 

[Craigwyatt]

I 100% agree with wowbango. This is a very very bad sign. I'm glad you came here. Sounds like you are smarter than the owner.
He needs to go the vet like YESTERDAY!!!

 

[Carlton]

Hi,
someone I know has a 5 month old male veiled chameleon.
His chameleon, Boris, lays flat on his side or on his back. When Boris's owner holds him Boris lays on his side and back.

Can you explain why he is doing this? The owner won't believe me when I say his chameleon shouldn't be doing that, because I am only 14 and he thinks I know nothing.

Thank you!

Let's get a little more information please. When this cham lays on its side, is it doing so voluntarily (I mean, does the cham tilt itself over until its on one side, and can it stand up straight on its own?). Is it puffing itself up with air, gaping, and acting defensively? I have seen very stressed chams flatten themselves, gape, and tilt sideways to look as big as possible as part of a threat display. I also had one cham who would lay almost flat on something while basking...flattening himself to absorb more heat on the one side.

But, if this cham is lying on its side because it is weak and can't stand upright, can't grip his hand or move away from him, THAT is a huge problem!

 

[Xeyana S]

Carlton, I don't know this person personally. I know him through instagram. I can give you his instagram so you can see for yourself, if you would like. I am not giving out his instagram so he can get hate and bashed on, I am giving it out so that we all can help him understand it is NOT healthy for his chameleon to do this. His instagram is @chameleonboris
I hope he will take your tips and advice and do the right thing for his precious Boris.

 

[brownie64]

I agree with everything Carlton has said couldn't have said it better myself.