Due to the lack of scientific research, nutritional
supplementation for chameleons in captivity, is largely
a mystery. This is an area of chameleon care that must
be determined individually by the chameleon keeper. The
needs of each chameleon can vary depending on species
and life stages (i.e. growing babies, egg laying
females, mature adult males etc.).
The conventional wisdom is
that both a vitamin and calcium supplement should be
provided to captive chameleons but with widely differing
opinions as to "how much" and "how often". This will
also depend on the products you use. One of the best
ways to ensure chameleons are getting proper nutrition
is through the foods they eat. Supplements are in
addition to a healthy diet. When we supplement, it is
done "lightly and routinely".
The prey item should be
evenly coated but not "laden down" or smothered with
supplements.
Since chameleon life stages affect metabolism and
nutritional needs, this is an important factor to keep
in mind when supplementing. Some chameleon species
grow at a much faster pace than others. Warmer climated
species tend to have higher metabolism rates verses
cooler climated (montane)species. A word of caution
from our own experience . . . some montane species tend
to be very sensitive to over supplementation, so be
careful not to over-do.
For a list of products we recommend
using, please click on:
Supplements