Hekp me phaten up Leelo.

[skajari1]

Hi, I was wondering I have been to a couple reptile shows and I have noticed that all the Cahmees have skinny arms and legs. There usualy any where form 3 -6 months old, the ones for sale. I coulden't resist and baught a 4 -5 month old male jacksons ( Leelo ) . Leelo seams healthy and he has no sighns of any health conditions that I can see. The only thing is that his arms look a little skinny. I want my boy fat, I don't think he likes lifting weights, but how do i put some meat on his arms. So as if in near future there is a strong cham competion where theres a line of chameleons all flexing there colors and muscles mine will at least look worthy of being on stage. LOL, do i just feed him a coulple wax worms a day?

 

[JoshCrane1]

you want him to beef up, not fatten up.lol, i would go with silkworms.

 

[Trace]

I've seen some fat, overfed chameleons in my day and quite frankly they don't look good to me. Those ones will probably die early of liver disease or some other side effect from too many bugs.

That said, before you try and beef up your new guy, tell us a little of his history. Is he WC? WC animals (and plenty CB ones at that) more often then not are rife with internal parasites. Get rid of those and watch him return to a healthier, normal looking weight. I'd recommend a check-up at the vet's anyways to ensure he's healthy. Don't forget to bring a fresh poo sample to determine whether he has got worms or not. Also, as you mentioned, juvenile chameleons are naturally slimmer, wait a few more months to see if he fills out.

Waxworms are generally considered to be a fattening insect and should be used sparingly. I'd rather see you feed Leelo crickets, roaches, silkworms, flies and other nutritious insects before cramming him full of waxies. With proper care, he will fill out nicely. Patience is a virtue when dealing with reptiles.

Post a pic of Leelo, I'm sure one of us can tell you if he is too skinny or not.

Have fun with your new pet.
t