Keep in mind if he found a dark place to hide he will curl up and sleep until light. There is a chance he is behind something or up in the curtains but didn't make it to the top and just went to sleep. If the cats got to him I would assume there would be a mess unless he is still a bite size...
To add to what @jamest0o0 said, it is easier then people make it out to be but you still need to pay attention and learn more then other types of animals. People use automation to make it easier but you still need to remember to double check the mister level and light timers. I don't think they...
This is a rule of thumb though and I have found my panther tends to move around to lower branches while my female sits right under the light. Neither of them gape while basking so I think it more important to give them options and see what they like.
Who else is in So Cal? We need to find a building and setup a full on chameleon sanctuary. We can colab on breeding species and stuff. It will be awesome!
I just love that the OP was hoping for reason and the true colors of this forum came out in the form of "oh look pictures of a chameleon... BUY IT NOW". This is why I do not bring it up here when I see something I like. I would need a bigger house haha.
Get ready for the investment. I would be ready to take in as much knowledge as you are about to get dropped on you. There is no cutting corners with chameleons but made even more so with the conditions yours have started with. Good luck and I will be keeping tabs on this one. You are in amazing...
Yeah I heard the same about them being difficult to incubate as well. I listened to all the podcasts covering carpets but it makes me want to try. The life span would be hard but to make a few generations would feel very accomplished and proud to help the community.
You will need to lower the branch lower (or lamp higher) as well as buy a new bulb that is not so hot. I recommend buying a temp gun and keeping the basking spot at 85 degrees at most for that age. Make sure there are branches that go under the light but at different levels so that it can choose...
I buy crickets because I just don't feel they are worth me going through all the work. I am starting to breed superworms and have done plenty of silk worms. Silks are harder for me to find and cost a lot.