Veiled chameleons have a particularly unusual appearance and exciting character, making many reptile lovers treasure them. However, beginners can have difficulty caring for this classic chameleon as they require advanced care. Choosing the proper diet before looking for a chameleon for sale online will help you ensure they get the correct nutrients for their well-being.
Here is an appropriate diet for a veiled chameleon:
What to Feed a Veiled Chameleon
The produce section in local supermarkets usually contains foods suitable for the lizard’s diet. However, don’t select foods randomly because some are harmful and can cause immediate or gradual ailment.
Be wary of avocados, rhubarb, onions, iceberg lettuce, and other produce. Before introducing a new food, research to confirm that it is safe.
Food List for Veiled Chameleons (Plants)
Best Greens
• Dandelion greens
• Mustard greens
• Turnip greens
• Collard greens
• Hibiscus
• Endive
• Escarole
• Deep green lettuces
Fruit
• Mango
• Melon
• Apple
• Blackberries
• Raspberries
• Blueberries
• Grapes
• Pears
• Strawberries
Vegetables
• Cucumber
• Carrots
• Sweet potato
• Squash
• Zucchini
• Watercress
• Sweet red pepper
Safe Insects
The majority of veiled chameleons’ diet comprises live feeders. Bug movements attract the interest of chameleons and prompt them to hunt.
Since veiled chameleons are opportunistic hunters, they can eat many common bugs. Therefore, give them insects that are safe to eat and maintain health. Here are insects that they eat:
Staple Insects
Mealworms
They are high in nutrients but not like superworms. They contain high levels of chitin which can be hard to digest. Don’t feed veiled chameleons too many mealworms to prevent impaction.
Superworms
They are more like mealworms but are lower in chitin and have more nutrients. Superworms are better for veiled chameleons since they are easier to digest. They are staples and not an occasional feeder such as mealworms.
Dubai Roaches
They are an ideal staple feeder for most reptiles since they are well-balanced in vitamins, protein, nutrients, and calcium. In addition, when bought from a reputable supplier, they won’t cause parasite infection.
Crickets
They are cheap, readily available, and high in nutrients. However, they can carry parasites, so check the reptile for any signs of parasite infection.
Nutrigrubs
Nutrigrubs, also known as black soldier fly larvae, are a staple high in calcium.
Toxic Bugs
Accidents happen even when best efforts are made to prevent chameleons from consuming toxic bugs. If they consume these bugs, get them to the vet as soon as possible. Here are insects that chameleons should not eat:
• Ants (even though not all are toxic, some bites can cause an allergic reaction)
• Ladybugs
• Fireflies
• Spiders
• Caterpillars and monarch butterflies
• Centipede
What if My Veiled Chameleon Refuses to Eat Vegetables?
Young veiled chameleons consume insects as the main component of their diet. But unfortunately, most breeding chameleons don’t like plant matter.
Giving them vegetables and fruits from a young age will establish a habit of consuming them as they age. They may begin to consume vegetables frequently as they grow, and some may start preferring them to insects.
Veiled chameleons are known to act as insectivores throughout adulthood. They cannot change their preference, but it’s nothing to worry about. The lizard can be sustained well by insects as long as proper nutrition is included in each meal.
How Often Should Veiled Chameleons Eat?
The feeding schedules of chameleons vary depending on age. Young veiled chameleons should be fed at least twice daily and gradually increase the volume as they grow. Give them vegetables and greens every day or several times a week.
Adult chameleon appetite is demanding, and keeping the same schedule daily can be beneficial. Feed adult chameleons every other day. Both adult and young chameleons eat the same food.
What to Remember When Feeding Veiled Chameleon
• Don’t give them insects that are bigger than the width of the chameleon’s head.
• Young chameleons need to be fed twice a day and adults every other day
• Chameleons depend on moisture from plants. Invest in an automatic dripper or mister as they drip water like leaves. Misting systems help to maintain humidity.
• Vegetables that have not been consumed within 30 minutes must be discarded
• Sprinkle food that contains multivitamin supplements at least once a week
Gut Loading
Gut loading refers to the necessary process of feeding insects nutritious foods for the benefit of the chameleon’s diet. Passing vitamins and other nutrients from insects to veiled chameleons can be beneficial, especially for those who don’t consume vegetables.
Most insect vendors develop their formulas. The quality of the mixes depends on the seller. A gut load involves blending dried fruits, grains, nuts, vegetables, or pre-formulated animal foods like reptile and bird pellets.
Choose the Best Breeder of Chameleon for Sale Online
Veiled chameleons are great pets for anyone who appreciates fascinating-looking creatures. Good care involves a mineral-filled, nutritious diet, correct temperature range, and a proper-size habitat. Providing these things will make sure that the chameleon stays healthy.
Choose a responsible breeder when you look for a chameleon for sale online. Select one with a proven track record of breeding the best-veiled chameleons.
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