If you are planning to get a chameleon, the first thing that comes to mind is the safety of your chameleon. To help protect your chameleon, you’ll need to get a cage. A cage isn’t just something that secures and protects them, it also provides them an environment that replicates their natural habitat.
The cage comes in many different sizes and different materials. Some cage comes as a complete kit, while others don’t and you need to purchase things for the cage separately. In this complete guide, we’ll guide you on choosing the best cage for the chameleon and give you a review of each of them. So what is the best cage for chameleon.
What To Look For When Buying A Cage For Chameleons
Cage Size
The size of the cage is very important for the health of your pet chameleons. Chameleons are arboreal, which means they spend most of their life on trees and plants. Therefore, the cage needs to have a lot of room for foliage and for the chameleon to move around, especially vertically.
The cage should also be large enough where it can accommodate lighting. Chameleons need lighting to maintain body proper body temperature.
Before choosing a cage to house the chameleon, make sure you have plenty of space in the house to put it. The furniture and other things should be at least 2 feet away from the cage. This will allow air to flow in and out of the cage without any restrictions.
Glass or Screen Type
When choosing a cage for your chameleon, you have the option of choosing a glass or a screen cage. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. When choosing the type of cage, it will depend on how you want to set up the environment for your pet chameleons.
The screen cage allows air to flow freely in and out of the cage. With a screen cage, less maintenance is required since there are no airflow restrictions.
The glass cage is more durable but doesn’t allow airflow to flow freely inside the cage. Glass cage needs to be cared for more frequently as heat can build up in the terrarium quickly.
Temperature and Humidity
The temperature and humidity are crucial to your pet chameleon’s health. As for humidity, some chameleons prefer their atmosphere to be more humid than others. The ideal humidity levels for most species will be between 50-70%.
Always maintain the correct temperature in the cage according to your species of chameleons. Most chameleons will require a daytime temperature of about 77-87° F and a night temperature of 65-75 °F.
Since room temperature fluctuates during the day and at night, it’s recommended to get a temperature and humidity gauge to put on the cage. This will allow you to maintain the correct temperature and humidity. You can buy them separately or buy them as a combo. Most of them will have a clip that you can clip to the cage’s frame.
Having a temperature and humidity gauge in the cage will help you determine if the temperature and humidity are out of the normal range.
Cage Lighting
Lighting is another important element to consider for the cage. Lighting provides not just light but heat and UVB rays. They need lights to help maintain their body temperature and for the production of vitamin D in their body.
In the wild, chameleons get natural lights from the sun. In captivity, the chameleons will most likely be indoors most of the time, so they need artificial lights to keep them comfortable and healthy.
When choosing the lighting, it must provide enough heat for the chameleon to maintain their ideal body temperature, while keeping the plants from being burnt by the lights. Therefore, your best choice is heat-emitting bulbs and basking bulbs.
Since the chameleons will be kept indoors, they will not be exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays as much as it needs to be. UVB is very important to the health of your pet chameleons. UVB prevents the common metabolic bone disease from occurring.
Lighting is also important in providing heat at night. If you live in the colder climate and its wintertime, the temperature can drop below the chameleon’s ideal body temperature. Having the proper lighting will help regulate their body temperature at night.
Lighting comes in many different types. There are some that have a combination of heat and UVB lights. Others may have just the UVB or just heat light. Depending on what you’re cage setup is, choose the best lighting for your cage.
Accommodation of Plants
In their natural habitat, chameleons are surrounded by plants. Therefore, it’s important to have plants in the cage so it’ll be natural to them.
When choosing plants for the cage, make sure they are not too big for the cage when they are fully grown. A plant that is too large will take up all the space in the cage and prevent your pet chameleon from moving around freely.
Another factor to consider is if the plant is toxic or not to the chameleon. There are some plants that are toxic and if the chameleons eat them, they could get sick or even die from it.
Resistance to Rust
Most species of chameleons live in a humid environment. If you live in places that have low humidity, you may have to mist water occasionally to maintain the proper humidity and temperature. In addition, the plants and trees in the cage will need watering daily as well to remain healthy.
To keep the chameleons and plants healthy, the cage is always exposed to water. This increases the chances of rust on the cage. Therefore, when choosing a cage, look for a cage that is resistant to rust.
Most cages will be coated with rust-proof paint, but there are some that are not. Be sure to ask the seller questions about what type of paint or chemicals is used to prevent rusting on the cage.
Types Of Chameleons
When choosing a cage, it’s important to choose a cage that’s correct for your species of chameleons. Species like the Veiled chameleons and Panther chameleons are large when they are fully matured. Therefore, they will need the largest cage possible to prevent them from being stressed.
Top 10 Cages for Chameleons
Here is our list of the 10 cages for your pet chameleons that we recommend. Pick the right cage that you think is suitable for your pet’s needs.
1. Zoo Med ReptiBreeze Open Air Screen Cage
This open-air aluminum screen cage is perfect for small species of chameleons.
Key Features
- 36 x 18 x 18 inches
- Black anodized aluminum screen cage
- Large front and bottom door
ReptiBreeze by Zoo Med is a lightweight cage that takes up little space in your home. It weighs just 3.44 pounds and has a dimension of 36 x 18 x 18 inches.
This cage has a large front door and a large bottom door. The large front door is for easy access to the cage for cleaning and maintenance. The bottom door is large enough for easy substrate removal.
ReptiBreeze cage is made from corrosion-resistant black anodized aluminum which has a beautiful look and is very durable. In addition, high-quality mesh surrounds the entire cage that’s resistant to tearing.
Buying this cage will come with all the necessary hardware for easy installation. Once you’ve received the product, simply assemble the cage together with the screws that are provided. The only tool you will need is a Phillip screwdriver.
Pros:
- Cage is very easy to clean
- The door is large and access to the cage is easy
- Cage is corrosion resistant
- Easy to assemble with just a screwdriver
Cons:
- Equipment such as lighting doesn’t come with it
- The cage size is not suitable for larger chameleon species such as Veiled chameleons
2. Zoo Med ReptiBreeze LED Deluxe Open Air
This cage is an open-air enclosure with screens all around for adequate air circulation, which makes it great for housing any species of chameleons.
Key Features
- Deluxe screen cage
- All hardware included
- Easy To Assemble
The Zoo Med ReptiBreeze LED Deluxe is available in the dimensions of 24 x 24 x 48 inches and weighs just 14.9 pounds. This is due to the cage being made from an aluminum construction frame. Additionally, the screen is resistant to corrosion and rust.
One nice feature of this cage is the clear acrylic front door panel. It allows for an unobstructed view of the entire terrarium. The door is also large which allows easy access to cleaning the cage.
Another feature of this cage is the built-in LED lights. This LED light is touch-activated with three different color settings of white, red, white, and red.
This large cage is perfect for larger species of chameleons such as Veiled chameleons and Panther chameleons.
Pros:
- Resistance against rust and corrosion
- Built-in LED lights
- Large door for easy access
- Clear acrylic door panel for viewing of the cage
Cons:
- LED light replacement is a bit expensive
- Cage may scratch if not handled with care during shipment
3. Zoo Med Repti Breeze Chameleon Kit
Check the current price on Amazon.
Key Features
- Complete starter kit for new chameleon owner
- Durable aluminum frame
- Strong screen mesh
This Zoo Med ReptiBreeze Chameleon Kit has a dimension of 16 x 30 x 16 inches. It weighs just 10.9 pounds, which means it’s lightweight and can be placed anywhere in the house.
This complete kit comes with a Reptibreeze cage, natural-looking vine, green cage carpet, naturalistic plants, a digital thermometer, and many other useful things that you’re pet chameleons require.
The kit has lights that are built within the cage. There are a UVB light and a heat lamp. Each has its own fixture which sits on top of the cage.
Once you buy this kit, all you need is a Philip screwdriver and a couple of minutes to assemble the cage, set up the decorations, and install the lights.
Pros:
- Suitable for all species of chameleons
- UVB lights perfect for your chameleons
- Naturalistic decorations to mimic their natural environment
Cons:
- Heat light bulb may need replacing if you live in colder climates
- Could break easily if not handled with care during shipment
4. Exo Terra Screen Terrarium, Medium
This terrarium cage is made of the highest standards of quality. Perfect for all species of chameleons.
Key Features
- Large hinged front doors
- Cricket proof screen
- Corrosion-resistant black anodized aluminum screen
The Exo Terra Screen Terrarium is a medium-sized cage measuring 24 x 18 x 36. It weighs just 7 pounds, which is light enough to move in and out of the house. The lightweight construction is due to the frame of the cage being made from quality corrosion-resistant aluminum.
There are two large doors on the front. The upper door has a large opening for easy access to the inside of the cage. The lower door also has a large opening that is for substrate removal and cleaning the bottom of the cage. Both doors have sturdy nickel-plated latches for durability and stability to the enclosure. This helps keeps your pet chameleons safe and secure.
The cage is wrapped by aluminum screen mesh that allows ultraviolet rays from UVB lights to penetrate further inside the cage. This screen is designed to provide a broader temperature gradient, which helps your pet chameleon regulate its body temperature more effectively. Additionally, the screen helps prevent the entire cage from overheating.
Pros:
- Double front doors for easy access
- Great for all species of chameleons
- Aluminum screen mesh
- Plenty of rooms to add additional decorations
- Easy setup with a single screwdriver
Cons:
- Instructions could be a bit confusing
- Could break easily if not handled with care during shipment
5. Exo Terra Rainforest Habitat Kit
This cage comes as a complete kit excellent for beginners. It has everything included to get setup and comes complete with instructions and a guide.
Key Features
- Full glass terrarium
- Dual front doors
- Includes all necessary decoration items
The Exo Terra Rainforest Habitat has a dimension of 18 x 18 x 24 inches, which is great for medium-sized chameleon species. Additionally, it weighs 47.7 pounds due to the cage being made of high-quality glass.
The front doors of this cage are large with ventilation on the front. The upper door is large enough that you can easily access it to clean the cage and feed your pet chameleons. The bottom bottom doors are also large, which is great for removing the substrates and cleaning.
The kit is equipped with a fluorescent lighting system and has a ventilated top to allow adequate airflow and light to pass into the terrarium.
The terrarium also comes with detailed instructions manual to set up the terrarium. The manual will help guide you through the process of installation, setting up the decorations, and maintenance of this Exo Terra Rainforest Terrarium Kit.
This terrarium is specially designed by European Herpetologists, which means it’s built by those with the knowledge that knows what keeps chameleon healthy and happy.
Pros:
- Full-screen top ventilation
- Unique front window ventilation
- High-quality glass for durability
- Compact top lighting system (heat and UVB)
- Great for all species of chameleons
Cons:
- Bulbs need to be purchased separately
- Plants are made from cheap plastic
6. Zoo Med Labs Nano Breeze Aluminum Screen Cage
This small lightweight cage is perfect for small chameleon species. In addition, the cage is durable which means it can be used to transport chameleons via car or even a plane.
Key Features
- Easy to assemble
- Perfect for small and medium-sized chameleons
- Lightweight
The Zoo Med Labs Nano Breeze has a dimension of 10 x 10 x 12 inches, which is small enough to place anywhere in your home. Additionally, the entire cage weighs just 2.4 pounds and can be transported in and out of the house with ease.
This cage is very durable and beautiful due to the high-quality materials used. The cage is made from anodized aluminum, which means it’s resistant to corrosion.
A great feature of this cage is that it has a clear and full acrylic front door. You can view the inside of the entire cage without any obstructions of view.
The cage is wrapped around with sturdy screen mesh that will keep your pet chameleons safe and secure.
Pros:
- Corrosion resistance cage
- Large front doors for easy access
- Lightweight and can be transported easily
- Anodized aluminum screen cage
- Clear acrylic front panel for optimum viewing pleasure
Cons:
- Not suitable for larger chameleon species
- Equipment needs to be purchased separately
7. Zilla Fresh Air Screen Habitat for Reptiles
This cage is perfect for all chameleon species. It’s built with high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting.
Key Features
- Sturdy anodized aluminum frame
- PVC bottom is durable and water-resistant
- Easy to assemble
The Zilla Fresh Air Screen Habitat for reptiles by R-Zilla has a dimension of 18 x 30 x 30 inches with a weight of 1 pound. With this large size and extremely lightweight cage, you can move it around the house with ease. Also, this cage makes it easy to transport the chameleons outdoors if you want them to get some natural sunlight.
The cage features dual front doors that open wides. This makes it easy to reach inside to clean the cage and feed your pet chameleons.
The frame of this cage is made of anodized aluminum, which is sturdy and long-lasting. In addition, the cage is wrapped by tough black mesh that a chameleon’s claws and teeth won’t rip it.
The bottom of the cage uses PVC plastic that makes it easy to clean the substrates and waste products.
Pros:
- Can house all chameleon species
- Cord port for convenient wiring of power accessories
- Large doors for easy cleaning and feeding
- The frame is sturdy and long-lasting
- Black mesh is strong and prevents chameleons from escaping
Cons:
- Have to buy equipment and decorations separately
- The frame could bend if not handled with care during shipment
8. Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium
If you don’t have a budget in mind and want high quality and long-lasting cage for your pet chameleons, consider the Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium.
Key Features
- Available in many different sizes
- Deep waterproof base
- Waterproof base
This is one of the best cages on the market for your pet chameleons. What makes it great is that there are many different sizes you can choose from:
- Medium 24L x 18D x 18H
- Tall Medium 24L x 18D x 24H
- Extra-Tall Medium 24L x 18D x 36H
- Large 36L x 18D x 18H
- Tall Large 36L x 18D x 24H
- Extra-Tall Large 36L x 18D x 36H
- Large Deep 36L x 24D x 18H
- Extra-Long 48L x 18D x 18H
- Tall Extra-Long 48L x 18D x 24H
- Extra-Tall Extra-Long 48L x 18W x 36H
- Extra-Long Deep 48L x 24D x 18H
- Tall Extra-Long Deep 48L x 24D x 24H
- Tall Extra-Extra-Long Deep 60L x 24W x 24H
- Giant Deep 72L x 24D x 18H
- Giant Deep Tall 72L x 24D x 24H
- Giant Deep Extra-Tall 72L x 24D x 36H
- Bio Deep 24L x 18W x 30H
- Bio Deep 36L x 18W x 36H
All models feature a waterproof base that is easy to clean.
The dual front doors swing outward to make it easy to reach inside to clean and feed your pet chameleons.
All sides of the cage are wrapped by high-quality glass that’s easy to clean and offers optimal viewing of the inside of the cage.
On top of the cage features a high-quality black mesh screen that’s sturdy and lightweight. Light fixtures and other equipment can be placed on top of it without worrying if it will tear or rip due to the weight of the fixtures and heat from the light.
A great feature this cage has that sets it apart from other cages is the key-lock security. This will keep your chameleon safe and secure from predators and thieves.
Pros:
- Hinge double doors for easy access
- Key-lock security to prevent escape
- Available in extra-large and tall dimensions
- Easy to assemble
- Durable and long-lasting cage
Cons:
- Expensive when compared to other cages
- Could break easily if not handled with care during shipment
9. Zilla Vertical Tropical Kit
This cage is perfect for housing your chameleon temporarily or for a baby chameleon. It features a glass construction and very durable and long-lasting.
Key Features
- Lighting included
- Front opening doors with locking
- Glass Terrarium holds up to 5” of water
The Zilla Vertical Tropical Kit has a dimension of 12x12x18 inches and weighs 16.75 pounds. Its small compact design is easy for transporting your pet chameleons to a different location of the house or for traveling.
This cage kit comes with a background décor piece, substrate, and feeding dish for your chameleon. Also included in the kit is a mini halogen dome with a light bulb. The light bulb provides enough lights and heat to keep the chameleon healthy and happy.
The front door has a large opening which allows easy access to cleaning the cage and feeding the chameleons. In addition, the door features a locking latch and locking pin to keep your chameleon safe and secure.
The top of the cage has a hinged door with a black mesh screen covering it. It’s strong enough to put additional equipment beside the dome light on it.
Pros:
- Dimensions are taller than wide
- Comes with miniature halogen dome fixture with lighting
- Mesh top for ventilation
- Humidity/Temperature gauge included
- Includes decoration, lighting, substrate, and feeding dish
Cons:
- Too small for larger species of chameleons
- Glass could break easily if not handled with care during shipment
10. REPTI ZOO 34 Gallon Large Reptile Glass Terrarium
This all-glass cage is not designed for chameleons, but it will be perfect for housing chameleon temporarily or keeping baby chameleons. It features all high-quality parts so it will last for a very long time.
Key Features
- All glass constructions
- Raised bottom frame
- Front doors can open separately
The Repti Zoo Reptile Glass Terrarium has a dimension of 24 x 18 x 18, which can house any size chameleon. It weighs about 38.5 pounds due to its glass construction.
The front side of the cage is a double door that opens outward and independently of each other. The front door is large enough to allow easy access for maintenance and feeding the chameleons. In addition, the door features a specially designed lock that will prevent the chameleon from escaping.
On top of the cage, it features a full-screen top that allows adequate airflow throughout the cage. Also, the design of the screen allows UVB and infrared penetration into the cage.
Pros:
- Strong screen top for ventilation
- Double door for easy cleaning and feeding the chameleons
- Raised bottom frame with a waterproof bottom
- The top screen is completely removable
- Can be used for all chameleon species
Cons:
- Decorations and equipment need to be bought separately
- Could break easily if not handled with care during shipment
Conclusions
Keeping a chameleon as a pet isn’t as an easy task as most people think. However, with proper care, owning a chameleon can be very rewarding. Hopefully, from reading this guide, you now have plenty of knowledge on what you need and what to look for in a cage so you can choose the best cage for your pet chameleon. As long as you provide them with what they need, they will be happy and will give you joy for many years to come.
