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Hydration and chameleon health
Hydration is one of the more critical aspects of chameleon care, and means more than just something to drink. It effects their entire metabolic process. Dehydration can lead to anything from shedding problems, renal damage and organ failure, or even death in severe cases.
Misting and Hydration
Misters
There are two primary categories of misters. Automatic misting systems and Hand misters. Both have advantages and disadvantages, particularly when you are getting started.
Automatic Misters
This seems to be one of those items every chameleon owner wants eventually, and can almost be a necessity in larger collections. Although these can add additional costs, there are advantages to automatic misters. For one, they are run by timers, or in some cases humidity controllers. This makes them very consistent and removes the extra daily task, which can help to reduce stress. There are a few options to choose from. Some things to consider are, how does the timer work? This seems odd, but many do not have control over when and how long to mist. Also keep in mind the water capacity and how easy/difficult it will be to clean.
Misting Systems
MistKing
MistKing has been a solid staple in herp culture for many years. It is a quality reliable product with an excellent timer that allows for exactly when and for how long, down to the second. The basic starter kit comes with one mister head. You will need a reservoir but size is up to you. This is a top choice if you decide to go auto.
REPTI ZOO 10L Reptile Mister
This is a newer product on the market. It does have good reviews. The one flaw would be that the “timer” is options for cycles per day and duration, so you do not have as much control over times. That said it does allow for you to change the spray pressure, and its all-in-one compact design may be more palatable to single chameleon owners.
Exo Terra Monsoon Solo System, Automatic Mister
This is another option for single chameleon owners. It has a timer system similar to the Repti Zoo, but only has a half gallon reservoir which might be on the small side. At a lower price point in can be a good option for those on a budget or that are limited in space.
Pump Misters
Hand/Pump Misters
These are always going to be a first go to choice for those just starting out, and as a constant backup for those that have automatic misters. These are pretty basic and there is no need to buy one that specifies what it is for. It sprays liquid. My advice here is get the pump up type, not the trigger type. Get what is appropriate and easy for you to handle. Make sure you will be able to mist for 2 to 3 minuets at a time.
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Fogging
Foggers
Foggers are a an important part of the set up. It has been shown that fog is an intricate part of the chameleons life in the wild. It provides the primary source hydration as shown by Petr Nečas video Fog Drinking In Chameleons. Further, in captivity fogging has shown benefits in overall hydration comparable to, and for some keepers superior to, misting and drippers.
REPTI ZOO 4L Reptile Humidifier Fogger is the new branding of the PETSPIONEER foggers
These are good foggers at a good price point. Parts are easy to replace and is a top fill design. The timer can be tricky to figure out, but it can be set to remain permanently on and controlled with an external timer or humidity controller.
Zoo Med Reptifogger Terrarium Humidifier
Evergreen Pet Supplies Reptile Humidifier / Fogger - Large Tank
Drippers
Drippers
These are a very common product used to provide a slow drip of water allowing arboreal lizards to lap up water droplets off of plants and leaves. They are a cheap addition to add more drinking options. Many chameleon keepers have found these beneficial, while others do not use them.
Accessories
Mister Heads
An obvious add on for those running automatic misting systems. They can be found it single and double head configurations.
Screen Top Wedge
When we mount our misting systems we need some form of support to hold the mist heads in position, and still maintain visual appea.
1/4 Inch Tubing
Where as any 1/4 inch tubing will work, MistKing is a bit stiffer and thicker for added durability.
1/4 Inch Tubing quick fit connectors
1/4" OD Quick Connect Push in to Connect for RO Water Reverse Osmosis System Water Tube Fitting Set of 20 (Ball Valve+T+I+L Type Combo)
R/O Units
When we run water through our misters it is highly recommended to use Reverse Osmosis purified water. There are a few reasons for this; like keeping your misters clean and clog free, simulating rain water, and it prevents the mineral build up on leaves misted with mineral rich water. Many, like the one listed here, can be found for under $60
Water storage medium
Water Jugs with handles and pour spouts can be handy to have on hand to keep a source of clean water to refill foggers, misters and drippers.
Water storage large
Once you purchase an R/O unit, depending on your needs, it is often easier to make a volume of water ahead of time. These are very affordable for water storage at under $40.