veiled vs carpet

[zeldaluv92]

I was planning on getting a veiled cham, since there's so much more information out there about them. But I really would like something smaller such as a carpet chameleon. Are the suppliments, food, and general care the same for carpets as they are for veiled? I know the housing is smaller, since the chameleon itself is only 5-8 inches. It seems like carpets would be better since they're smaller and i'm guessing they would eat less. I would just like some information since its hard to find some elsewhere. Thanks so much sorry i sound so clueless

 

[emmys824]

I have had a veiled and I now have a carpet.... To me, their care has been very similar... my carpet seems to enjoy lots of misting and drinks a ton of water... that may just be my particular cham though. She also eats a lot, but I get her the smaller crickets instead of the large ones, which I gave to my veiled. Don't know if this helps, but this has been my experience.

 

[SarahcoadunatioZac]

Carpets need a tiny ecosystem, live plants, substrate, branches. I would suggest that you begin with the enclosure first, work on humidity levels and lighting. Many members on this forum will help you along the way, I have no experience with Carpets (Although I love pygmies) if space is an issue, then a carpet is the way to go.

 

[zeldaluv92]

emmy, thanks a lot, that does help. Space is an issue, since I have quite a small room and not a lot of extra space.

 

[Elizadolots]

I don't know if this is a consideration, but carpet chameleons do not have as long a life span as veileds. That might not be an issue for you but if you're hoping for an animal you can have for 5 or 6 years, a carpet is not going to do it for you.

 

[lysinlight87]

I have a carpet cham & a veiled. as others have said, the care is much the same. A much smaller enclosure is necesary for a carpet though, 30" tall for an adult. Carpets are also very shy, so don't hand feed often- I know mine's eating from the food disappearing & him pooping lots lol. My carpet is actually easier to look after than my veiled- he's not as fussy about food & doesn't need a dripper (for the moment, at least)

Another thing to consider is that carpets are often wild-caught & WC specimens often struggle to adjust to captivity, have parasites & a reduced life-span.

I got mine captive-bred though, so it's worth asking around.