What to look for in a juvenile veiled

[WelshOneEmma]

We are thinking of getting another veiled. We have found a semi-local breeder who has offered us one, so we plan to go down between Christmas and New Year to go choose one. What do we need to look for in a juvenile chameleon? Obviously we thought our previous one was healthy, so I would like to know if there is anything (other than the conditions it is kept in) that we need to look out for?

 

[kenya]

Good idea!

First, you would want to see the parents or at least the mother and make sure that she is in good condition- you can't get healthy babies from an unhealthy mother.

You will be looking for straight limbs, open eyes, round (not sunken) eyes, no nasal discharge, no wheezing or popping when breathing, active, very alert (constantly watching you, pretty much) and a good grip.

You will look at the babies for the same thing. They should be bright green, big bulbous eyes, and possible a bit feisty and very active. Males have little "nubs" of flesh on the back of the heels on their back feet called a tarsal spur. You may want to start off with a male to avoid egg problems in a female.

 

[WelshOneEmma]

Haha, we know all about the tarsal spurs of males! Unfortunately, we ended up with a female who had male markings and spurs! She was also very sick and it only showed up in the last few weeks we had her, hence me wanting to know what to look for healthwise!

Thanks for the advice. We will obviously take the new addition straight to the vets for a once over when we get it (hopefully it will be a male this time!) but just want to make sure we know what we are looking for!

 

[WelshOneEmma]

Update - Have new Cham!

Ok, so we picked up a young male (hopefully!) veiled yesterday. We have already had one scare with him (decided to jump 4ft to the floor - seems ok). Was just wondering how long it would take for him to settle in? We have seen him drinking and have seen him hunting, but i am worried he isn't eating or drinking enough. Should he have a verocious appetite? Or is it ok he is basking a lot and occasionally wanders down? We are trying to not spend too much time watching him as he then stops what he is doing, and i want him to eat. I am a slight worry wart, but just want to be proactive!

 

[beeze]

Give him a day or two to settle in and then his appetite should pick up. How old is he?

 

[Lizardlover]

Veileds are very rewarding to work with, just watch out when he becomes mature, theyre little devils!

 

[WelshOneEmma]

We were told he was about 6 weeks old. He is about 1 1/4 inches long plus tail, very nice green, active, was ok when we handled him at the breeders (we got to hold a few a choose which one we wanted, which was nice) and we got to see the father (and the females, but not sure which one was the mum). Father was HUGE and very docile, loves attention apparently, so hoping that will rub off! Just seen him skulk down to the bowl and walk back looking like he was chewing, so hopefully he is just settling in!