4 Best Chameleon Cages, Enclosures, Tanks & Terrariums

Keeping chameleons as pets is not as hard as other pet reptiles. However, they do need a few things to live a happy and healthy life. One of the important things you will need is a nice tank.

Finding the best cage for a chameleon can be hard. They range in price, design, safety, and durability. Chameleons kept in the wrong enclosure can suffer injuries and higher stress that can result in a shortened lifespan.

In this post, we give reviews on the best cages for chameleons. We have covered everything from built quality information to what we like about each cage. By the end of this guide, you will be able to choose the perfect chameleon enclosure.

A Quick Comparison of the Best Products

Image	Product	Feature	Price
Best Overall	Zen Habitats Reptile Enclosure	Large enclosure– 120-gallon equivalent Retains high humidity Easy to assemble	Check Price
Best for Beginners	Carolina Custom Cage	Premium Cage Durable Great Ventilation	Check Price
Best Value	Zilla Fresh Air Screen Habitat	Durable PVC bottom   Easy to assemble	Check Price
	34 Gallon Best Repti Zoo Terrarium	Vertically Expandable Raised bottom frame Cable pass	Check Price

The Four Best Chameleon Cages

Below are detailed reviews of the best chameleon cages. The reviews are based on our personal use of the cages and customers’ feedback on the official websites.

1. Best Overall: Zen Habitats Reptile Enclosure

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Zen Habitat is one of the best companies that manufacture reptile enclosures. They make cages for many types of reptiles such as bearded dragons, geckos, and chameleons. They offer 3 years warranty for their products which you won’t find anywhere else when buying a chameleon cage.

This 2’x2’x4′ Zen Habitats Reptile Enclosure with PVC Panels is the perfect option for chameleons as it retains high humidity and offers plenty of horizontal and vertical space for chameleons to run about, climb, and exercise. 

The cage features large front opening Acrylic doors that make cleaning and maintaining the enclosure a lot easier. Most of the cages available in the market open from the top which can cause stress for your chameleon because they can get stressed if approached from above. That’s why Zen Habitat has decided to place the doors in the front of the cage which minimizes stress when approaching your pet. 

The enclosure comes with a substrate shield; you can choose between screen or acrylic shields. The screen shield is for increased ventilation. They have also included support bars and wire grommets in the screen top that makes it easier to install lights and heat bulbs inside or outside of the enclosure. 

2. Best for Beginners: Carolina Custom Cage

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Carolina custom cage is great for pet chameleons where they have a lot of space and room to play. It is an extremely durable cage. It comes with a variety of 21 different models for you to choose from.

These cages are very easy to assemble with dimensions that start from medium size 24L x 28D x 18H and go up to the extra tall large size of bio deep 36L x 18D x 36H inches which can house a mature pet chameleon easily.

You can set up a lot of accessories & decorations inside the tank since there’s enough space inside. It can be accessed from the top where there’s a steel mesh which makes it ideal & promotes ventilation. It also helps manage the humidity in the cage. The sides of the cage are made up of glass which provides you to keep an eye on your beloved pet at all times.

The double door access feature will definitely come in handy when you’ll be cleaning the cage and take care of your pet chameleon. To prevent your pet from escaping or someone else who might try to access the cage without your permission a key lock security feature is in place.

Overall the cage is made up of high-quality materials & is also waterproof including deep bases which are waterproof also. All these features definitely make this one of the beautiful cages but make it a bit pricey especially if you’re tight on budget, although if you do purchase it in the long run it will be worth the price & your pet will also enjoy and cherish it.

3. Best Value: Zilla Fresh Air Screen Habitat

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Unlike other chameleon enclosures we mentioned in this post, the Zilla Fresh Air Screen Habitat is a bit small measuring 18” x 30” inches. Despite its small size, it’s still one of the best cages for pet chameleons. It features two big doors that make the cleaning of the cage very easy. 

This cage is made up of durable and water-resistant material that will last for a long time. It provides full visibility of the inside and offers enough light and proper ventilation for your pet chameleon to live a healthy life. The design allows installing all the lights, UVB bulbs, and other accessories with ease.

The habitat is also visually appealing, with a sleek design that would fit in with most home decor. This is a plus for those who are looking for a habitat that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. The screen construction may not provide enough insulation in colder climates, leading to the chameleons getting too cold. Additionally, the screen design may not be suitable for chameleons that are prone to escape or climbing, as they may be able to easily climb out of the habitat.

4. 100 Gallon Chameleon Reptile Tank

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The 100 Gallon Chameleon Reptile Tank is an outstanding choice for chameleons. The terrarium’s tempered glass composition not only offers a crystal-clear view of the inhabitant but also ensures a safe and suitable environment for reptiles.

The tank’s robust screen top guarantees excellent ventilation, crucial for a healthy reptile environment. Additionally, it permits the penetration of UVB and infrared rays, which is vital for reptiles’ metabolic processes and overall health.

One of its unique features is the raised and waterproof bottom. Whether you’re setting up a desert terrarium or a rainforest tank, this design ensures flexibility.

The two separate front doors provide convenience during maintenance and feeding times. While the secure lock is a beneficial addition, it’s essential to note that it might not be suitable for ball pythons, indicating the company’s honesty in ensuring users make informed decisions.

Cable management is a breeze with the six closable inlets and an extra cable pass, making it easier to organize and set up accessories. Furthermore, the installation process is user-friendly, allowing for quick set-up or knock-down within minutes.

The company places a significant emphasis on customer satisfaction, ensuring that the terrarium is shipped securely with reinforced foam and tough cardboard. Moreover, their commitment to quality is evident in their offer for a free replacement for any damaged parts.

The dimensions of the tank (36” L x 18” D x 36” H) and its 100-gallon volume make it ideal for various reptiles, from lizards and geckos to spiders and frogs. Weighing at 89 lbs, its durable build ensures longevity.

The 100 Gallon Chameleon Reptile Tank stands out not just for its top-tier design but also for its dedication to ensuring the well-being of your reptile pets. By considering the terrarium’s features and functionality, it is evident that this product is a culmination of expertise, experience, and attention to detail.

For anyone looking for a blend of aesthetics and optimal functionality, this is undoubtedly a product worth investing in. Remember, quality matters, especially when it concerns the well-being of your reptile companions.

Things to Consider When Buying a Chameleon Cage

While it may be tempting to simply purchase the first cage that catches your eye, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure the health and happiness of your pet. Here are some things to keep in mind when purchasing a chameleon cage:

Size and dimensions

It’s essential to select a cage that is appropriately sized for the specific species of chameleon you have or plan to adopt. Smaller species, such as pygmy chameleons, will need a smaller cage, while larger species like panther chameleons will require a larger enclosure. Additionally, chameleons need plenty of space to climb and bask, so be sure to choose a cage that provides ample vertical space.

The minimum cage size for a pet chameleon is generally considered to be around 2 feet by 2 feet by 4 feet, or a similar size that allows the chameleon to move around and explore its surroundings. This size of cage is suitable for smaller species of chameleons, such as Panther chameleons or Veiled chameleons.

However, it is generally recommended to provide as large a cage as possible for a chameleon, as these animals need plenty of space to move around and explore. A larger cage will also allow you to create a more naturalistic environment for your chameleon, with various climbing and basking areas, and plants to provide cover and enrichment.

Material and durability

The material of the cage is also crucial to consider. It’s essential to choose a cage made from safe, non-toxic materials that won’t harm your chameleon. Additionally, chameleons are known for their climbing skills, so it’s essential to choose a cage that is sturdy and able to withstand accidental falls or bumps.

Ventilation and airflow

Proper ventilation is crucial for the health of your chameleon. Chameleons are prone to respiratory issues, so it’s essential to choose a cage that allows for good airflow and circulation of air. Be sure to avoid cages with poor ventilation or ones that trap too much moisture, as this can lead to respiratory problems.

Ease of cleaning and maintenance

Choose a cage that is easy to clean and maintain. Chameleons are prone to bacterial infections and other health issues if their environment is not kept clean. Be sure to select a cage that is easy to access and clean to ensure the health of your pet.

Cost

Of course, cost is always a factor to consider when purchasing a cage. However, it’s essential to find a balance between cost and quality. While it may be tempting to save money on a cheaper cage, it’s crucial to prioritize the health and well-being of your chameleon. It’s worth investing in a high-quality cage that will provide your pet with a safe and healthy environment.

Resistance to Rust

Chameleon prefers a more humid environment, which means you will have to spray water or even attach a water source permanently. Hence the cage is always exposed to water; this will also increase the chances of rusting. The cage you pick for your chameleon needs to be resistant to rust.

Temperature

Temperature plays a vital role in the well being of the chameleons. Generally, a chameleon requires a daytime temperature ranging from 77 to 87 degrees and a nighttime temperature of 65 to 75 degrees. To gauge the temperature inside the enclosure, we recommend installing a thermometer.

Humidity

Make sure that the cage you choose for your chameleon can hold the level of humidity required for them. Generally, the ideal humidity level for chameleons lies between 50 to 70% depending on the specie you are keeping a pet.

Every specie of chameleon requires different levels of humidity inside their enclosures, some prefer a more humid environment than others. In order to maintain the correct humidity level, you will need to install a hygrometer inside the cage.

Lighting

Lighting is another essential aspect to consider. Chameleons need to be exposed to UVB lights regularly to produce the required vitamin D for the body. Since pet chameleons are kept indoors which naturally reduces its exposure to ultraviolet rays. Lack of exposure makes them prone to different diseases specifically related to bones & can be life-threatening.

Make sure that the cage you choose for your chameleon has space to fit these lights which will help your pet get the adequate amount of ultraviolet B rays that its body needs. Some cages come already equipped with lighting systems and in some, you may have to install them yourself just make sure beforehand that it does support features to install additional lighting systems.

Either way, you should be ready with a few spare bulbs at hand just in case. Few species of chameleons require up to 12 hours a day of exposure to light & rays. If you live in an area where there may not be enough light during the day then the chameleon will want to regulate its body temperature during night under the light.

Plants

Plants are an essential part of a chameleon’s habitat. You will need to place a few plants inside your chameleon cage where they can climb and have a good time. Because chameleons in their natural habitats like to chill & climb on trees, plants & use them to hide.

Make sure the plants are nontoxic since they don’t really know the difference between a real plant and a fake one which makes them prone to eating it so just to be extra careful you should make sure the fake ones you place in the cage should be non-toxic. Make sure the enclosure you pick for your chameleon has enough space to fit in a few plants.

Plants in the chameleon’s cage need to be taken care of too because they are a vital part of your pets’ environment & help with the humidity. Constantly monitoring them will help you know when their roots are poking out of the soil and it needs repotting. The cage you will select should be able to accommodate and handle pots.

Doors

It provides easy access to the chameleon cage if you want to put in food or handle your chameleon. It’s definitely not a make or break but most owners prefer cages in which they have access from the top because you’ve set up bulbs, lighting, furniture, etc., to a specific setting and don’t want it disturbed every time you’re trying to access the cage.

Water

Chameleons in their natural habitats keep themselves hydrated where rain is very common. And that’s what you as an owner should do to help your pet chameleon stay hydrated by placing a water dish in its cage. But they will ignore it most of the time because instinctively they are used to consuming water droplets in their natural habitat.  

Furniture

Chameleons in their natural environment like to climb on trees, and plants & live on them most of the time. The only few times they come on the ground is to bury their eggs that’s why they’re called arboreal creatures. For that reason, we need to provide our pet chameleon with good-quality furniture to climb on such as vines & other plants.

It can be a combination of fake & real plants. Fake plants should be non-toxic and real ones should include plants such as pothos, ficus, and hibiscus which offer the chameleon a place to hang out, climb cool down & even hide as it would do in the wild.

Based on the factors discussed above, here is a list of best chameleon cages available in the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

It is important to keep in mind your pets well being and happiness which is why you’re still here reading this. It can be a challenging task but a rewarding one i.e., taking care of your chameleon pet. Because you want it to have the best home & comfort which is why we have compiled a list of best chameleon cage for you here in the above article based on our own research, opinion & experience. It will surely meet the needs of your beloved pet chameleon that it will love and cherish.