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Chameleon Cage and Enclosures
Choosing the right home
There is a limited selection of “off-the-shelf” chameleon appropriate 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.
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Chameleon Enclosures
DiyCages 24x24x48
These are a good economical starter choice for a chameleon cage . Good space at 24x24x48, These require a bit more assembly, making this an affordable choice. Also available in 18x18x36.
$
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. Also available in 18x18x36.
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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.
$$$
Zen Habitats 24x24x48
These are quality, attractive chameleon enclosures and are available in 24x24x48 and other size options. They are enclosed with screen tops, and optional screen lower front. These would be ideal chameleon cages for those that may need more environmental control for their pets. With the screened lower front panel and use of a small fan for ventilation, this type of cage is a good choice for cold environments.
$$$
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 caving system and come with hydration mounts, Dragon Ledges (perfect for attaching branches), and most importantly, it includes a drainage tray. At $330 for the 24x24x48 tall screen model, it is a great deal for its pricetag.
$$$
Tamura Designs
These are top quality custom cages recently made available. They are all inclusive setups including lights, misting, climate control, and more.
$$$
Drainage Pans and Substrate Trays
Universal 25″ Drainage Tray
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
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.
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
washing machine pan
Condensate Drain Pan, 24" x 24"
Substrate Tray for Vertical Screen Cage .
Washing machine pans are great, affordable, and appropriately sized for use under many cages.
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
Utility Tub
Substrate Tray for Vertical Screen Cage .
Active Aqua Flood Table, Black, 2' x 2'
Utility tubs can be a cheaper alternative, although adjustments and modification will be needed.
Active Aqua Flood Table, Black, 2' x 2'
Substrate Tray for Vertical Screen Cage .
Active Aqua Flood Table, Black, 2' x 2'
2'x2' Flood Table’s grid pattern design and multi-level drainage channels promote fast and thorough drainage. Multiple drain positions for versatility in set-ups. Stronger corners and thicker than most other brands. Rounded corners for easy cleaning. Gradation inside to accurately assess optimal water levels. The Active Aqua line of flood tables, reservoirs, and covers offer features that rival the competition at value prices. Made from durable, high-impact ABS plastic with UV resistance for longevity. Outer Dimensions - 30" x 30" x 7.5"
Styrofoam cooler
Styrofoam cooler
Styrofoam cooler
These can often be an affordable solution. It can easily be cut to fit. There are also products to hard coat and paint Styrofoam. Ask your local pet and aquarium store, they get these all the time and may be willing to sell or even give these away. There are many sizes and two or more can be combined.
Planting Trays
Styrofoam cooler
Styrofoam cooler
Another great option for a substrate tray are the common planting trays. They are thin, but very affordable, and work decently, but can be a little shallow for proper Bio-Active. With a little creativity, who knows?
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
$
These are one of the more affordable options out there right now. They do require more assembly, but that is where the money is saved.
Currently they are out.
Dragon Strand Tall Screen Chameleon Cage System
$$$
The Tall Screen Chameleon Cage System gives you a 23.75″ x 23″ x 48″ Tall Screen Cage, a set of six Dragon Ledges, two Hydration Mounts, and a Drip Easy Drainage Tray.
Tall Screen Cage: 23.75” wide x 23” deep x 48” high. This cage is suitable for most chameleon species through their entire life including Panther Chameleons, Veiled Chameleons, and Jackson’s Chameleons. This is a screen cage with a solid PVC back wall to protect your home walls from mist overspray.
Dragon Ledges: These patented interior supports provide the strength to install horizontal branches and potted plants on the sides and back of the cage without stressing the screen. Dragon Ledges are what allow you to create beautiful floating garden type cage interiors. The Dragon Ledges are patented under patent US D800,969 S
Hydration Mount: This kit includes two Hydration Mounts which will allow misting nozzles from Mist King and Cli-Mist to be mounted onto the cage. There is also an entry point for 1/4″ tubing which allows entry for Ex-Terra Monsoon misters and 1/4″ drip systems for plant watering. The Dragon Strand Hydration Mount is unique as it is designed to be mounted anywhere along the inside top frame.
Tall Cage Drip Easy Drainage Tray. This system contains a drainage tray and a screen panel floor to replace the standard white PVC floor included with the enclosure. The screen floor allows mist water to flow directly through the floor and into the drainage tray. The screen floor also partners with the black drainage tray to mask that there is a floor giving your naturalistic set-ups a more attractive look.
Exo Terra Screen Terrarium, Large
Exo Terra Screen Terrarium, Large
- High quality, corrosion-resistant black anodized aluminum screen enclosure
- Large hinged front door(s) offering full access to cage interior
- Swiveling bottom door for easy substrate tray removal
- Cricket proof screen
- Measures: 36" x 18" x 36"
$$$
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
$$
This Item can be difficult to locate. We do our best to keep our links current, but we can not guarantee availability. The price on these swing wildly, but you should expect to pay between $130 and $180 delivered.
Zen Habitats
Zen Habitats Chameleon Cage 24x24x48
The 2'x2'x4' PVC Panel Reptile Enclosure by Zen Habitats is great for lizards, snakes, and other small arboreal animals that require a low to high humidity environment. Zen Habitats Reptile Enclosure uses 1” anodized aluminum, bamboo printed PVC panels, front swinging acrylic doors, a galvanized steel screen top, additional top humidity shield to retain humidity, and a 12" substrate shield (either acrylic or steel screen - for increased ventilation). The steel screen top includes screen support bars and wire grommets to give you the flexibility to install your lighting fixtures inside or outside the enclosure.
Why the 2’x2’x4’ Zen Habitats Reptile Enclosures?
Large enclosures – 120-gallon equivalent. Many reptiles thrive when given room to run, jump, and climb.
Non-reflective surfaces reduce anxiety. Most reptiles are territorial and do not like their own reflections.
Front opening doors minimize stress when approaching your pet. Many reptiles and amphibians have a parietal eye which helps them spot aerial predators. A lot of reptile tanks open from the top - approaching from above can cause stress for your pet.
Bamboo printed composite PVC panels for up to 100% humidity. Allows for a high humidity environment without the disadvantages of glass aquariums.
Humidity Shield helps retain humidity while providing ventilation. Optional 22"x 11" sheet of acrylic that lays on top of the screen to help control humidity.
Substrate Shield included. Choose between acrylic or screen shield. Screen shield is for increased ventilation.
Easy to assemble – A rubber mallet sometimes helps.
$$$
Tamura Designs
Tamura Designs custom caging
Tamura Designs has mostly been a custom builder until recently. He, and samples of his work, can be seen on Advanced Chameleon Caging. These are all inclusive designs with custom humidity control of fog, lights, and mist.
$$$
Alternative Housing Options
Large Butterfly Cages
Large Butterfly 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 babies 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:
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:
Large Bird Cages
Large Butterfly Cages
Large Butterfly Cages
These are pricier than the butterfly cages but they have sturdy frames and trays that can be used for drainage. Paper towels can be placed on these or a hole can be drilled to drain into a reservoir. Live-bearing mated females and free range feeding are not recommended in these cages due to the spacing of the cage bars (this can be fixed using mesh or hardware cloth to wrap cage walls, floor and ceiling). These cages can be a great value for the size when shopping wisely.
Find large bird cages here:
This particular bird cage has been used successfully by several chameleon keepers, who have posted positive reviews, among the 91% positive 4.6 star rating (warning: check your package thoroughly to ensure all the parts are present/not bent or broken/and the screw holes are aligned correctly, these are the most common complaints out of the 9% of dissatisfied customers).
Prevue Hendryx Pet Products Wrought Iron Flight Cage: