How Much Does a Chameleon Cost?
Chameleons are unquestionably amazing creatures. But it takes the right kind of owner to ensure that they get the proper care that they deserve. If you’re considering bringing a chameleon into your home, you’re likely wondering what it costs to do so.
We’ve got you covered. In this guide, we detail the important costs that go into raising a chameleon in a safe and healthy environment.
What Does It Cost to Raise a Chameleon?
Chameleons are magical animals. With that said, they are not the best pets for all potential owners, as they are easily stressed. What’s more, you also need to consider the cost of owning this interesting species.
The initial purchase price of a chameleon ranges from $30 to $300, depending on the type of species you get. Also, the age and the place of purchase can factor into the price, as well.
However, this is only a small part of the story. In addition to the chameleon, you also need to buy a water tank, plants, lighting equipment, timers, heaters, thermometers, and even a live food box.
Ongoing expenses include feed, plant replacement, supplements, electricity, and any veterinary expenses that your chameleon will need throughout its life cycle. Although the chameleon itself may cost you just $50 initially, you can pay 50 times the purchase price during the life of the chameleon. Food for thought.
Up-Front Cost
The cost of the chameleon itself is not the only upfront cost that needs to be considered. In fact, these may not even be the highest costs.
If you have never owned a chameleon or a similar type of lizard, you need to invest in a complete installation that includes a water tank, lighting, heating, and decoration functions.
You also need an initial supply of food and supplements to keep your pet as healthy as possible. Depending on where you buy them, the price range of this little lizard is very wide-ranging.
If you’re not looking to spend anything, you might be able to score a chameleon for free. If you know someone who wants to rehome their chameleon, or you have found an unwanted chameleon and want to give them a home, please do as much research as possible.
If the current owner simply doesn’t have time to take care of their chameleon, you can do business. But if the current owner is getting rid of their chameleon because the reptile is sick and needs continuous treatment, think twice. You may not have to pay for the chameleon, sure, but you are taking on a serious investment: one that you may regret.
Adoption and Breeder Costs
The cost of adoption varies, but it is usually between $30 and $100, with the most common being around $50.
However, unless you can find a dedicated adoption service, finding a chameleon for adoption is not easy. The same is generally true for most lizards and reptiles.
In this case, you should request a cage and equipment to transport the animals, as this will reduce the initial cost.
Buying a chameleon from a breeder is usually the most expensive, but it allows you to obtain different varieties and choose between males or females.
You can also meet with the lizard’s mother and father to better understand what it would be like to join your family as an adult. Another factor that determines the price of a chameleon is the specific variety you choose.
There are dozens of species, but the three most common—those bred in captivity and considered good pets for novices and experienced owners—are the Veiled Chameleon, Panther Chameleon, and Jackson’s Chameleon.
Their prices vary. Consider the following species to help you decide on the type of chameleon you’d like to adopt.
- Veiled Chameleon
The price range for a Veiled Chameleon is usually between $30 and 100. The Veiled Chameleon is the most popular variety of chameleon. They are usually bred in captivity, but even this breed, which is considered best for beginners, can become stressed if treated too frequently or too much.
Compared with wild chameleons, breeding chameleons are generally healthier, friendlier, and less stressed.
- Panther Chameleon
Panther Chameleons will run anywhere from $100 to 300. The Panther Chameleon can be raised in captivity, so it should be healthier and easier to care for.
They tend to be very docile, which means you don’t have to chase them around the cage or room. They are also easier to care for than other types of chameleons.
- Jackson Chameleon
Last up is the Jackson Chameleon, which goes for somewhere between $50 and 150. It is estimated that the female life expectancy of a Jackson Chameleon is about five years, whereas a male is about ten years.
The adult height is around ten inches. Jackson chameleon is another popular native chameleon species that cost a bit more than the Veiled Chameleon, but they are good pets for beginner owners.
Getting Supplies
Before you get the chameleon, you need to make sure you have a proper setup. This includes a water tank, lights and heating, watering, and enough plants and vines for your little lizard to roam around.
You will need a thermometer and a digital timer. In addition to that, you’ll need to ensure the supply of the first meal and room for plenty of more food. Consumables can cost up to $800, but you can start with a more limited configuration and add it over time, or you can check the previously used options to save some cash.
Recurring costs are added to the cost of acquisition. Although most owners will consider factors such as food and electricity, supplements, plants, and even water as a separate, additional expense. As such, it’s important to remember to add them to your budget.
Healthcare
Of course, veterinary and medical expenses are always unpredictable. In some years, you may not need to take the chameleon to the veterinary clinic. Other years, you may need to make that trip multiple times.
The budget also takes into account the cost of medicines. For example, the travel expenses to the veterinarian need to be taken into consideration. Look for deals and bundles to reduce these costs, but expect return visits up to $75.
It depends on the veterinarian you use. Professional exotic animal veterinarians can ask for more because they have unique knowledge not available elsewhere in your area.
Fecal testing and fecal floats are commonly used to detect internal parasites, while visual inspection can help identify external pests. Treatment depends on the presence and type of parasite, but the cost of each test can be as high as $150.
You will also likely need to combine treatment with therapy. The cost of therapy varies wildly and depends on the health of your chameleon.
Emergency situations can range from eye infections to sharp object bruises. Of course, the cost of urgent care varies by emergency and severity, but the cost of one-time or short-term treatment can be as high as $300 or more.
One of the best ways to control veterinary expenses is pet insurance. The increasing popularity of lizards and reptiles, in general, has caused more and more insurance companies to provide insurance for these types of animals.
This directly affects the total amount you pay, but expect to pay about $10 a month for this useful insurance policy.
Food and Environment
Your chameleon will likely live on a diet of mainly crickets, and you cannot keep them long before they die or become too large for your chameleon.
You can buy a bucket of 250 crickets for about $3, which can be used for around ten days or fewer. Their annual prices range from $100 to $150. Conversely, you can create a self-sufficient cricket colony, and it won’t cost you any money except maintenance.
With an additional annual payment of $30 to $50, you can give your chameleon a good source of heat and lighting. You also need good living plants so your little guy can rest and hide when they feel stressed. A good healthy living space will go a long way in keeping your chameleon happy.
The Right Reptile?
Does a chameleon seem like the right pet for you? There is certainly a lot to think about, but you have to remember the additional costs that come in later if a chameleon is pretty cheap upfront.
But long-term care and maintenance can get expensive. As such, you need to be sure that you are committed to carrying on the costs throughout the life of the chameleon.
Sources
This Is How to Care for Jackson’s Chameleons Lianne McLeod, DVM
Panther Chameleon Care Information | Reptiles Magazine
Veiled Chameleon Care Sheet | Reptiles Magazine
