Do Chameleons get sick?
Chameleons are one of the most fascinating creatures because of their ability to change color and the ease of care that they require. Although their owners enjoy having them, sometimes they ask if their Chameleons can get sick.
Yes, just like all other animals Chameleons also get sick. Chameleons are also susceptible to a number of common health problems including respiratory infections, MBD, and parasites. As a responsible pet owner, you should take care of them by providing them with regular, proper husbandry such as the humidity and temperature are right.
How can I know if my chameleons get sick?
As an owner of a chameleon, you may want to know how can you tell if your chameleon has become sick, so please don't worry about it as your chameleon will show signs of illness that you should be aware of, and we have provided some signs below that you should be aware of.
- Behavioral Changes- As one of the most common signs of sick chameleons, you should be on the lookout for any changes in their behavior. If you see any unusual behavior in your Chameleons, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, excessive hiding, or aggressive behavior, then you need to take them to a veterinarian for a diagnosis.
- Weight loss- It is also a common symptom of the chameleon illness that they lose weight regularly. Sudden weight loss can be an indication of an underlying disease.
- Breathing problem- If you observe the chameleon's breathing, you may notice it is holding its breath rapidly or laboriously, which may be an indication of respiratory problems.
- Decrease in appetite- Whenever a Chameleon suffers from an illness, their eating habits become affected, such as refusing to eat or having difficulty swallowing food if they are suffering from an illness.
- Problem on excretion- The Chameleons should be checked carefully if you notice that they are getting sick, as any changes in color or frequency of droppings may indicate that something is wrong with their digestive system or parasites.
- Changes in physical appearance- In addition, you should check for any signs of abnormalities in the chameleon's physical appearance, such as changes in coloration, discharge from the eyes, nose, or mouth, swelling, or any visible injuries that may occur.
- Exploring an unusual part of the enclosure- When your Chameleon is sick or suffering from some kind of illness, you may find that he will not visit his favorite spot at that time. If he is spending time in an unusual area like the bottom of his cage, then that is a sign that he is unwell.
- The eyes become sunken- In the case of chameleons that are dehydrated, stressed, or sick, their eyes are likely to appear sunken and flatter than usual.
As soon as you notice any of these signs, you should consult a vet who has considerable experience in reptile care for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment as early detection and treatment can significantly improve the chances of your Chameleon regaining its health.