Choosing the right Chameleon Enclosure
The Best Chameleon Cage For You
There is a limited selection of “off-the-shelf” appropriate chameleon cages. When we consider what enclosure to buy for our beloved pet, we must take into consideration what we can realistically provide. Buying an undersized cage with the idea that "one day I will get something bigger” can have negative results for your chameleon.
Lets ask ourselves:
1. Where do I plan to put this cage and how much space can I provide?
2. What is the average temp and humidity of that area? This can help you decide if you need an all screen or hybrid option. If the area is far off in parameters, like northern areas, you may want the more enclosed options.
3. What can I afford? We all want the custom fitted “top-of-the-line” cages, it is just not realistic for everyone. If your budget is low, consider that, an all screen option (generally lower in price), with a little creativity, can become a hybrid.
Keep in mind, it is actually better in many cases to know what you can provide before deciding which species of chameleon to purchase. If your max cage size is 18x18x36 or 18x36x36 you may want to look into getting a female (of certain breeds) or smaller species.
See Inspirational Enclosures for beautiful examples of proper setups.
See our Chameleon Accessory Supplies
Beautifully set up DragonStrand Chameleon enclosure!
Chameleon Enclosures
DiyCages 24x24x48
These are a good economical starter choice for a chameleon cage . I have heard varied reviews but mostly good, with complaints stemming from quality of the back panel peeling and having to put it together. At he price point under $200 It is a good choice.
$199 USD
REPTIBREEZE 24x24x48
The ReptiBreeze has been the go to chameleon enclosure for many years. Good quality from well-known brand. The XL version (24x24x48) is a good size for most chameleons.
$170 USD
Currently on Amazon $117.52
Exo Terra Screen Terrarium, Large 18x36x36
This is another good chameleon cage in the medium sized range. At 18x36x36 it also give us better horizontal space in our chameleon enclosure, however, at 18“ wide, is only suited for chameleons approximately 10in or less.
$234
DragonStrand 24x24x48 tall screen model
If you are looking for a chameleon enclosure that will look good even sitting empty Dragon Strand is the choice. These chameleon cages were designed by the expert Bill Strand. These are an all-inclusive enclosure system and come with :
hydration mounts
Dragon Ledges (perfect for attaching branches)
and most importantly, it includes a drainage tray!
$424
Zen Habitats 24x24x48
These are quality, attractive chameleon enclosures and are available in 24x24x48 and other size options. They are enclosed with screen tops, and optional screen lower front. These would be ideal chameleon cages for those that may need more environmental control for their pets. With the screened lower front panel and use of a small fan for ventilation, this type of cage is a good choice for cold environments.
$439 USD
Tamura Designs
These are top quality custom chameleon enclosures. An attractive piece of furniture on it own, they are well made and designed to be bio-active enclosures. The come in a myriad of sizes and custom setups. They are top tear enclosures.
Acrylic Door 24"Wide_48"Tall_24"Deep
$750
Budget Chameleon Cages
Large Butterfly Cages
These are the least expensive, ready-made, low budget enclosure options for young (or smaller species) chameleons. It is great for baby chameleons or can be used for short spans of outdoor sunning. This will serve its purpose for keeping the chameleon caged, however it has a weak support system for hanging lights or plants. Keep in mind the fabric mesh is delicate and can be cut or torn easily. Tall plants are a must-have in these cages, branches and vines may be secured to the wire corners with zip ties and lighting must be mounted above the cage top. Do not use as permanent outdoor enclosure in areas where feral cats or rats are an issue. (Cutting out the bottom and placing this on a tall elevated planter box will give the enclosure more space to possibly house larger chameleons. Zip tie two cages side-by-side and cut out the center walls for an extra large and inexpensive DIY cage).
Find butterfly cages here:
Available on Amazon 24 x 24 x 36" tall
Personal successful experience using this particular 24x24x36 butterfly cage (helpful tips: attaching zip ties to upper corners secured to wall mounted brackets will give the wire frame added strength and stability/cut small holes in bottom fabric for drainage/be sure to weigh the cage down if using outdoors, strong gusts will topple cage)
Yamix collapsible butterfly cage:
Drainage Pans and Substrate Trays
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
Condensation pans come in a variety of sizes, and already have a drain installed. They make good chameleon cage trays.
washing machine pan
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
Washing machine pans are great, affordable, and appropriately sized for use under many chameleon cages.
Utility Tub
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
Substrate Tray for Vertical Screen Cage .
Utility tubs can be a cheaper alternative, although adjustments and modification will be needed.
Substrate Tray for Vertical Screen Cage .
Substrate Tray for Vertical Screen Cage .
Substrate Tray for Vertical Screen Cage .
ST3 - Substrate Tray for SC4 model Vertical Screen Cage. This tray fits perfectly. Perfect for feeding, substrate, or catching water run off. PVC tray is easy to clean and freely slides in and out of bottom access door.
Dimensions: 23.25x23.25x4
Universal 25″ Drainage Tray
Substrate Tray for Vertical Screen Cage .
Universal 25″ Drainage Tray
The Universal 25″ Drainage Tray provides a drainage solution for ReptiBreeze, DIY Cages, LLL Reptile, Jungle Hobbies and, of course, Dragon Strand cages. Most manufacturers do not offer a drainage tray. A drainage tray sits under and outside the cage.
Currently out of stock
Diy Cages 48x24x24
Screen Reptile Chameleon Cage Diy Cages 48x24x24 Aluminum No Rust
Features:
- ALUMINUM Handle, Hinges, 2 Stainless Steel Locking Clasps, and Hardware.
- Cage Body is Made of 100% Aluminum
- Heavy Duty ALUMINUM Screen
- Best New Design on the market.
- Why mess around with plastic screwed in components that fall apart, when you can have this cage for less money!
- Specs: 48"H x 24"W x 24"D and Specs: 36"H x 18"W x 18"D
Dragon Strand Tall Screen Chameleon Cage System
Zoo Med Reptibreeze Open Air Screen Cage, X Large, 24x24x48
Open air black aluminum screen cage is great for arboreal species of lizards like Old World Chameleons, Anoles and Crested Geckos
- - Large front door for easy cage access plus bottom door for easy substrate removal
- - Beautiful, corrosion resistant, black anodized aluminum screen cage
- - All hardware included. Easy assemble using only a screwdriver
- - Versatile reptile cage can be used as chameleon habitat
Exo Terra Screen Terrarium, Large
Exo Terra Screen Terrarium, Large
- High quality, corrosion-resistant black anodized aluminum screen enclosure
- Large hinged front door(s) offering full access to cage interior
- Swiveling bottom door for easy substrate tray removal
- Cricket proof screen
- Measures: 36" x 18" x 36"
Reptibreeze Open Air Screen Cage
Zoo Med Reptibreeze Open Air Screen Cage, X Large, 24x24x48
Open air black aluminum screen cage is great for arboreal species of lizards like Old World Chameleons, Anoles and Crested Geckos
- - Large front door for easy cage access plus bottom door for easy substrate removal
- - Beautiful, corrosion resistant, black anodized aluminum screen cage
- - All hardware included. Easy assemble using only a screwdriver
- - Versatile reptile cage can be used as chameleon habitat
Zen Habitats
Zen Habitats Chameleon Cage 24x24x48
The 2'x2'x4' PVC Panel Reptile Enclosure by Zen Habitats is great for lizards, snakes, and other small arboreal animals that require a low to high humidity environment. Zen Habitats Reptile Enclosure uses 1” anodized aluminum, bamboo printed PVC panels, front swinging acrylic doors, a galvanized steel screen top, additional top humidity shield to retain humidity, and a 12" substrate shield (either acrylic or steel screen - for increased ventilation). The steel screen top includes screen support bars and wire grommets to give you the flexibility to install your lighting fixtures inside or outside the enclosure.
Why the 2’x2’x4’ Zen Habitats Reptile Enclosures?
Large enclosures – 120-gallon equivalent. Many reptiles thrive when given room to run, jump, and climb.
Non-reflective surfaces reduce anxiety. Most reptiles are territorial and do not like their own reflections.
Front opening doors minimize stress when approaching your pet. Many reptiles and amphibians have a parietal eye which helps them spot aerial predators. A lot of reptile tanks open from the top - approaching from above can cause stress for your pet.
Bamboo printed composite PVC panels for up to 100% humidity. Allows for a high humidity environment without the disadvantages of glass aquariums.
Humidity Shield helps retain humidity while providing ventilation. Optional 22"x 11" sheet of acrylic that lays on top of the screen to help control humidity.
Substrate Shield included. Choose between acrylic or screen shield. Screen shield is for increased ventilation.
Easy to assemble – A rubber mallet sometimes helps.