Old age

flaminglazer72 · Apr 22, 2020

I have some questions about old age with Veiled Chameleons. I've had my guy for about four and a half years. This past winter he had been showing some signs that he was starting to slow down. I honestly didn't think he'd make it through but he's a very tough guy. However I have to hand feed and give him water with a syringe now. He also has trouble with his surroundings. He's not gripping branches and vines properly anymore and sometimes grabs his own limbs. It's very hard for him to eat. I have to try to give him small pieces of fruit to Keep him fed and hydrated. I'm just not sure what options there are to help ease him along. I don't exactly want to wake up one morning and find him on the bottom of the enclosure. How am I supposed to know when its time for him to move on? I don't want to feel like I've given up on him, but there's only so much I can do myself. Any suggestions?

CasqueAbove · Apr 22, 2020

So that is a personal decision.

However you are describing MBD. 5 is not old.

Could you fill this out, and we may be able to help.

Chameleon Info:
Your Chameleon - The species, sex, and age of your chameleon. How long has it been in your care?
Handling - How often do you handle your chameleon?
Feeding - What are you feeding your cham? What amount? What is the schedule? How are you gut-loading your feeders?
Supplements - What brand and type of calcium and vitamin products are you dusting your feeders with and what is the schedule?
Watering - What kind of watering technique do you use? How often and how long to you mist? Do you see your chameleon drinking?
Fecal Description - Briefly note colors and consistency from recent droppings. Has this chameleon ever been tested for parasites?
History - Any previous information about your cham that might be useful to others when trying to help you.

Cage Info:
Cage Type - Describe your cage (Glass, Screen, Combo?) What are the dimensions?
Lighting - What brand, model, and types of lighting are you using? What is your daily lighting schedule?
Temperature - What temp range have you created (cage floor to basking spot)? Lowest overnight temp? How do you measure these temps?
Humidity - What are your humidity levels? How are you creating and maintaining these levels? What do you use to measure humidity?
Plants - Are you using live plants? If so, what kind?
Placement - Where is your cage located? Is it near any fans, air vents, or high traffic areas? At what height is the top of the cage relative to your room floor?
Location - Where are you geographically located?

Current Problem - The current problem you are concerned about.

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Please Note:
The more details you provide the better and more accurate help you will receive.
Photos can be very helpful.

JacksJill · Apr 22, 2020

I agree limb grabbing is more MBD than a sign of aging. How old is your light bulb? Can you get him some real sunlight? Have your supplements expired?