Chameleon Cost

Chameleons are one of the most common types of pets in today’s world. They can be found at almost every local pet store. They have a unique color-changing ability which happens for different reasons like stress or danger, but also as a form of defense. Chameleon eyes allow it to see 360 degrees around its body without moving its head by looking left right up down separately one from another.

How much does a chameleon cost?

Recently, the chameleon has gained popularity as a pet. But what is it really like to have one? Chameleons are lizards and they live in warm climates such as South Africa or Madagascar. They can range anywhere from $40-$600 on average depending on their type, age, gender quality of the animal. It will also matter where you’re buying it from (a breeder versus an exotic pet store), and where that vendor may be located. For instance, if you would be interested in purchasing a veiled chameleon at Petsmart, you will spend around eighty dollars.

Check out our articles about the cost of a tarantula, a pet octopus, or an iguana.

You can also check out our table below which displays some popular species with average costs:

What should you receive when adopting?

Your new pet will need a place to live, and you should receive the necessary equipment to raise them. They might come with cages of different sizes or starter kits that include food, a health checkup, and a health warranty. You might also get coupons in the same package.

Any extra expenses to consider?

Chameleons are fascinating creatures, but like any other reptile, they need supplies and a cage to properly take care of them. You can either buy a plain screened cage or purchase complete kits that include everything you’ll need, all in one package; from the lamp, spray bottle, medicine, as well as plastic decorations such as leaves. The typical starter kit costs about $200 while cages on their own start at around $50 depending on size – initial setup aside from the chameleon can cost anywhere between $300 and $400.

To care for your pet lizard, you should provide them with a heat bulb in their cage. Heat bulbs to maintain the temperature can cost $5 to $20 depending on the type and wattage of the lightbulb that is being purchased. According to chameleonforums, 40-60 watts are usually enough but 20+ will also work if they maintain an average range of 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit inside the cage at all times. The bulb needs replacing every six months.

Climbing accessories such as branches or vines need to be included in the cage and these also come with a cost.

To keep your chameleon comfortable and happy, you need to make sure that its cage is misted at least two times per day. The cost of a simple spray bottle can be as low as $5, or you can spend upwards of $100 for an automatic system; it all depends on how much time and effort you want to spend caring for the creature. A gauge also lets you know the humidity levels in order to ensure your pet stays healthy.

While chameleons are not a massive investment, they still require care and feeding. The average chameleon costs $20-$40 per month in food, accessories, vet visits, etc., but if your pet needs medical treatment this cost is often much greater than expected ($100+). A healthy adult will eat insects such as silkworms and hornworms twice daily (their diet should also have calcium supplements sprinkled on top), however many owners find that roaches make better eating for their lizards.

When ordering online, there may be additional shipping fees that apply. Regardless of which reptile is ordered, Backwater Reptiles charges $40 for overnight delivery on all orders.

Important tips to remember

Chameleons can be found in a variety of colors, sizes, and shapes. Depending on the species, their average size ranges anywhere from 18 to 24 inches. Adults usually reach adulthood at 12 months old. Avoid placing your chameleon near a window because experts say that it may cause some stress for them. It is best if you place theirs tanks up high like on desks or any other higher surface where they feel more “tree-like”.

Consider purchasing aquarium wallpaper to keep your pet chameleon happy. Chameleons can often see their reflections in the glass, which may cause them stress if they believe there is another animal that lives with them. Experts recommend waiting a few days before you handle your new pet so it can become used to its surroundings first.

According to Petco, common health issues that can be seen in animals are gastrointestinal disease, metabolic bone/vitamin deficiency, and respiratory disease. Symptoms such as weight loss, swelling, or lethargy should trigger a visit to the veterinarian right away.

Is there any way to spend less?

Some stores offer packages that will include the chameleon, a cage, and a pack of supplies you will need to start taking care of it. These kits are often cheaper than purchasing each item individually – but be sure to check with your local shelter or Craigslist first. Most private owners who want/need to get rid of their pet Chameleons for various reasons usually sell them at much lower prices too – so keep those options in mind as well before deciding on what to spend your money.

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Alec Pow

CEO at ThePricer Media

Alec Pow is a thorough and methodical Financial and Business Analyst with over 15 years of experience in financial statement analysis, Foreign exchange derivative hedging instruments analysis, modeling, and risk management, with a long history of writing for big news publications like Forbes, MSN.com, Washington Post, and many more.

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