Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I got a Jackson's chameleon about a week ago. He seems to have a problem with his tongue. When he eats, he shoots his tongue but it doesn't extend fully, it only extends probably a third of what it should. I have seen him shoot it fully extended, but only once. I think this is kind of odd, as he would do himself better if he didn't have to get so close the the crickets to eat. Please respond if you have any suggestions or explanations.

Tongue problems are fairly common but there are several reasons for it. The cham could have vitamin or mineral deficiencies that you inherited from the seller's care. He could have injured the tongue...it does happen. Chams occasionally bite or overextend their tongues injuring the muscle. Dehydration can interfere with tongue control. He could have been bowl fed from birth and never developed much muscle. He's still stressed from his move and this may have brought out a low level health problem that was already present. There are some vet articles on www.adcham.com and www.herpnutrition.com you can read that may give you ideas on what to look for.