Help with chameleon tongue

[Dommo1995]

Hello, new to this site but I have a question about my new cham! I bought him
A few days ago and it's unlike anything I've ever experienced With chams! He appears to have no tongue! I've never owned a vieled chameleon before and looked it up, apparently it may not show in his mouth as they hide it in a pouch, however I haven't seen it at all once I have bought him even when he eats he just runs up to the bugs and eats them like a bearded dragon! No tongue whatsoever! I contacted the man I bought him off but he said that it's probably because he's never had to use his tongue due to being in a small enclosure with plenty of food! Any suggestions anybody? I wouldn't mind caring for him if he has no tongue but I would like to get to the bottom of this to see if I can fix the problem

 

[kinyonga]

It could be that he has no tongue if you are never seeing any signs of it when he is drinking/licking or eating. They can live fine without one.

 

[Dommo1995]

That's so peculiar! I was wondering if there would be any way to check so that I will know for sure? Just because he seems to struggle Catching his food without a tongue! It's not a problem As I can hand feed him but would be nice to know!

 

[A1ycia]

When he goes to drink water of of plants have you ever watched him? I would think that would be the most likely way you would see it.

I would suppose the only detonate way you could find out is through a vet.

 

[Dommo1995]

I must admit I haven't seen him drink much but he doesn't appear dehydrate at all! I have a dripper so he's probably drinking when I'm not about! I did see it once but no sign of a tongue! Yeah I thought that was just trying to avoid some vet bills!