My Jacksons Chameleon Died

aemays

New Member
I had a female Jacksons Chameleon, not exact on the age as she was adult size when I got her two months ago. She had multiple vines and artificial plants (the live ones are currently on order, due to arrive next week ☹️). She had the appropriate lighting, temperature, humidity, food, water supply, everything. I did and continue to still research chameleons to provide my best care. She was fine when I left this morning at 6:30 am but when I returned at 3:30 pm she was dead on the floor of her enclosure. What could cause a seemingly healthy chameleon to drop dead?
 
There are a lot of possible answers but the best way to find out is to take her body to a vet and have a necropsy done. Anything else would just be blind guessing. Parasite overload? Bacterial infection? GI obstruction? Poisoning? Choking on a prey item?
Chameleons, like birds, will try to appear healthy to avoid being eaten and to hold their territory from intruders.
 
There are a lot of possible answers but the best way to find out is to take her body to a vet and have a necropsy done. Anything else would just be blind guessing. Parasite overload? Bacterial infection? GI obstruction? Poisoning? Choking on a prey item?
Chameleons, like birds, will try to appear healthy to avoid being eaten and to hold their territory from intruders.
Thanks for your reply, I figured this would be the answer, but I just feel so distraught I want answers. She'll be dropped off at the vet for necropsy in the morning ☹️
 
I'm terribly sorry for your loss. I know how much these lil guys/gals can work their way into your heart.
If you feel up to it you could fill out the how to ask for help form and get a review of our husbandry from the forum members to look for any problems. This would be a good idea if you think you will try again.
Many Jackson's are wild caught and can come with a variety of hidden problems that the stress of a new environment can make worse. Females can have problems with their reproductive systems even when they haven't been bred and most of the wild caught are pregnant.
 
Im sorry to hear about your girl! Remember her in your heart, and know you did all you could for her.

If you are up to it you could share with us how she died when you find out. It may help other keepers.

Again, Im so sorry!
 
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