very new and nervous

[gilbert]

My husband bought me a veiled male juvenile about 4 months old today. He is from pets mart but seems healthy although they had him in a small glass tank. They had him buy a glass tank with a mesh lid some substrate and crickets as well as calcium. He has a couple of branches and some artificial leaves/plant as well as a tall rock like thing for him to climb on.
I know I need a different cage. Tall and preferably mesh. It will be a couple of months before I can get it. Also I see conflicting advice about night temps. I read as long as not below 40 it will be fine then I read not below 70.
Also I only have a spray bottle for misting. If I do that 2x a day for 2 minutes will that be okay?
I am very nervous and want him to be healthy. This is my 1st chameleon so any help would be greatly appreciated

 

[jannb]

Welcome to the forums and congrats on your first chameleon. I keep veileds and they are awesome chameleons. Unfortunately most pets stores know nothing about keeping chameleons and sale you all the wrong things. I would recommend taking back as much as you can for a refund and purchasing the correct items so that you will be able to keep your chameleon healthy. I have a blog for new keepers that has the basic items needed, with links to pictures and where you can buy each item. If you don't have an enclosure with ventilation, the correct lighting, supplements and temps. Your chameleon will become ill and eventually die. I'm very sad to say that I see it on here all the time. At four months old I would not allow my veiled Chameleon's temps. drop below 68 at night. He might could live with it a bit lower but I don't want my chameleons just to survive, I want them to thrive.
https://www.chameleonforums.com/blo...-keepers-young-veiled-panther-chameleons.html
More chameleon info for beginners can be found here: https://www.chameleonforums.com/care/chameleons/

 

[carol5208]

I agree with Jann, I would take the tank back for a refund and also let them know they are giving out the wrong information on how to care for a chameleon. Give them this website on how to get educated to properly care for one. As far as the misting, if you are seeing your chameleon drink, then a couple of minutes 2 or 3 times a day should suffice. It is wise to add a dripper so your chameleon can drink when it wants too. The problem with drippers is the excess water and drainage. If you search the forum you will find ideas and solutions for drainage, although most of them are designed for screen cages. I used to use a small, shallow Tupperware bowl and covered that with screen. You never want to use anything too deep that your chameleon could fall in and drown if he could not get out. We are glad you found the forum. We will get you on the right track so your little one will lead a happy and healthy life with you. Welcome!

 

[gilbert]

Thank you both so much! I am so glad I found you! I already love my little guy and want him to thrive

 

[laurie]

The two ladies who have offered advice are taking good care of you. You have a forum home and we will help you have a healthy, happy cham. Welcome to being owner by your cham.

 

[gilbert]

Thank you Laurie