Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am starting to consder building my own cage for a future pet veiled chameleon. I was hoping somebody already had plans available, or atleast some ideas. I understand that metal screen can be damaging to the chameleon, but i wouldn't be able to rest a heat lamp on the nylon stuff, whats the best screen to use? What is the recommeded size for 1 adult veiled? Any and all advice is welcomed.

Thanks Alot

K!LOS

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1.0 midland painted turtle
1.0 mississippi map turtle
2.0 common snapping turtle
1.1 leopard geckos

How much money do you want to put into your cage? How big can you make it?
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Gabriel - Montreal - Ding.
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I was thinking 2 ft deep x 3ft wide x 4ft, maybe a little smaller. Money, well.... cheaper is better, but no more than $150 usd i guess. I dunno, if something were to cost more, but i feel it was worth it, i would probably do it. I haven't really thought about cost, i think i will just spend what it takes to have a good solid reliable home for my chameleon when i get it. Thats the way i am with all my pets...

K!LOS

I just constructed a cage for my panther a couple months ago and it worked out great. There are a couple things I learned AFTER the fact, but I fixed them. I used this fencing from Lowe's. It comes rolled up and is green plastic and has holes about dime sized. It is excellent for climbing chams and it is very easy to attach vines and plants too with wire. Keep in mind that it isn't cricket tight, but at the bottom of the cage I have about 6 inches of plexiglass for the pesky crix. On the top of the cage I had the plastic fencing and my lights melted it( I am lucky I was home and I tried it out before I got my chameleon). I ended up putting a mutal screen on the top but make sure you have your lights elevated as to bnot to burn your cham. Also, most importantly, something I did not know before I started... get the bottom tray BEFORE you build your cage. The dish to catch the water is what I am talking about. Welp, good luck and if ya need any more help email me.
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1.0 Picasso panther chameleon (Pablo)
0.1 Leopard gecko (Leo)
2.0 Red-eyed tree frogs
1.0 African side-necked mud turtle (Wrinkles)
1.2 Spring peepers
1.1 Fire bellied toads

thanks for the info, i might just take you up on emailing you when i get some plans down. Thanks again

K!LOS

chameleon cages are the easiest and cheapest cages to build so thats a good thing. there is two basic ways to make a cage. First you can build a frame with 2x2's with a door and then staple pvc coated hardware mesh on it or window screen. The other thing to do is buy window screen frames and drill holes in it to attach the thing together. I hope you understand what i am saying and that your cage works out well.