newbie questions :)

[xkwisit]

Hi all..... first of all great forum!! Thank you! I've been lurking around doing my research. I don't have a chameleon yet but having been leaning towards getting a veiled. I'd like to build an enclosure to ensure stability. I have dogs & cats. I was thinking of using the screening that's pet proof. I'm contemplating building one out of 1x1s or repurposing a curio.

I'm correct in assuming I should utilize a smaller enclosure for a baby until he grows into the larger one I am building, correct? What age/size would be appropriate for a larger enclosure. I am considering rehoming an older chameleon as opposed to getting a baby.

Thanks in advance for your help....

Jen

 

[jajeanpierre]

I'm no expert by any means, just a novice like you, but I don't see why your young chameleon can't go into a big cage right from day one. After all, in the wild they have no cage and manage to survive right out of the egg. I'm sure others will chime in and offer their take on the situation. If you are cup feeding only, a big cage might pose a problem. I don't like cup feeding. I think they should work for their food. Being allowed to express natural behaviors such as hunting and foraging will make for a happier, less stressed chameleon. Captivity has costs to the animal.