We have a 5 month old Ambilobe Panther Chameleon. He has only been with us a couple of weeks and we are new to chameleon pet owning. As of this morning our AC unit has broken and will not be repaired or replaced until tomorrow morning. Since it has become so hot in our house (90+ degrees) we have noticed him opening his mouth up a lot. We are misting his cage more than usual but was wondering if his heat lamp should be turned off since the house temp is so high too? What is the best temperature to keep his cage at? Is this usual behavior? Any suggestions are greatly appreciated?
Please help-AC in home went out Las Vegas
- Thread starter ilovezeke
- Start date
OldChamKeeper
Chameleon Enthusiast
I'm a tad surprised you would post for help regarding the AC unit died and you still have your heat lamp on. While I understand we all start somewhere it's a bit frustrating to see that type of logic.
If you need to, place ice cubes on the top of the screen along one side only. Cool air sinks so it will drop the temp a bit if that is what you need, can you measure the temps?
If you need to, place ice cubes on the top of the screen along one side only. Cool air sinks so it will drop the temp a bit if that is what you need, can you measure the temps?
I came to this forum for help. Please do not scrutenize me for seeking help, I believe that is why this forum was created, is it not? Who better to ask than people who are seasoned with owning chameleons such as yourself? My other option would be to call a local pet store (people who know nothing) This was literally my first post on this site. If new-comers do not feel safe from ridicule, who do we have to turn to?
Anyways, Since the AC died this morning it has gradually and slowly gotten hotter in my house so once the temps were over 85 I actually turned his heat lamp off. I was simply posting to validate my decision. So thank you for the tip, I do appreciate it. Zeke (my chameleon) seems to be a lot happier now. He has been surprisingly active since its been warmer in the house.
carol5208
Chameleon Enthusiast
I understand why you asked. I was very uncertain about many things when I got my first chameleon and sometimes common sense tells you you know the answer, but you just want that reassurance. I have seen others ask the same question about having a chameleon out on a patio where it is warm and would they still need the heat lamp. You are welcome to pm me any questions you may have if you don't want to start new threads for every little question that may arise. I am usually on the forum quite a few times a day.
OldChamKeeper
Chameleon Enthusiast
You took my comment personally, it was not intended as such.
Thank you very much, I will keep that in mind. I am sure it can be frustrating dealing with what seem to be silly questions. I ended up in a circumstance where I had very little knowledge about chameleons prior to owning Zeke. I have been researching every day and this forum has been incredibly helpful. Thank you so much for your support.
Thank you to all- UPDATE
I wanted to thank everyone again for all the quick replies. I really appreciate the help and support.
A quick update- Zeke is doing very well today. Last night was not easy but between the fans in the house, ice packs and ice cubes on tope of his cage (great suggestion) the temperature in his cage cooled enough for him to be comfortable and sleep well all night. I know because I was on the couch right by him! HA- we made it! This morning he was a happy camper. Had a great healthy poop, excellent appetite and when the AC was repaired and turned back on we were able to regulate the temp in his cage and eventually put the heat lamp back on. We are all doing much better today! Thanks again for everyone who responded. As I mentioned I am new to chameleon owning and doing as much research as possible to give this little guy the happiest life he can have here with me.
I wanted to thank everyone again for all the quick replies. I really appreciate the help and support.
A quick update- Zeke is doing very well today. Last night was not easy but between the fans in the house, ice packs and ice cubes on tope of his cage (great suggestion) the temperature in his cage cooled enough for him to be comfortable and sleep well all night. I know because I was on the couch right by him! HA- we made it! This morning he was a happy camper. Had a great healthy poop, excellent appetite and when the AC was repaired and turned back on we were able to regulate the temp in his cage and eventually put the heat lamp back on. We are all doing much better today! Thanks again for everyone who responded. As I mentioned I am new to chameleon owning and doing as much research as possible to give this little guy the happiest life he can have here with me.
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