The Best Cages for Your Chameleon

Chameleons are a fun pet to keep and interact with, especially when you get to watch them transform their bodies based on their environment. That’s one of the reasons that choosing a great cage for your chameleon is so important. These pets can be sensitive and rely on their surroundings to provide a sense of security and safety. Chameleons need plenty of space as well as shelter options to go to when they are feeling stressed.

We’ve compiled the top chameleon cages for beginners as well as experienced exotic lizard owners. Because chameleons need ample amounts of space, you’ll notice that we don’t have any recommended cages for small spaces. This is because a chameleon is not the best pet option if you don’t have enough room to keep them happy and healthy. If you do have the space and want the fun of taking care of a chameleon, here are some great cages to get you started.

A-Z-Animals Top Picks for Cages for Your Chameleon

#1 Best Overall: Zoo Med ReptiBreeze Reptile Cage

In our review, the best cage for your chameleon is the Zoo Med ReptiBreeze Reptile Cage.

This cage is large enough for most chameleons and affordable enough for most budgets. It has screen sides and two doors on the front: one to access your pet and the other to remove or change the substrate below when needed. The mesh is lightweight but sturdy enough to support any vines or branches that you want to install.

Assembly is also easy. It includes all pieces and hardware and can be put together with just a common household screwdriver. This is an open-air chameleon cage, which some owners may find too lightweight for their needs. The frame is made of corrosion-resistant black aluminum so it will last through normal wear and tear.

One thing worth mentioning is that it’s not made to move around while there is stuff inside, if you do, you could break it. So it’s advisable to pick a relatively permanent spot for it.

Pros and Cons of the Zoo Med ReptiBreeze Reptile Cage

Overall Best

Zoo Med ReptiBreeze Reptile Cage

• Comes with two doors on the front
• Very easy to assemble
• Frame is made from corrosion-resistant black aluminum
• Cage is roomy enough for most chameleons

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2. Best Budget Choice: Zoo Med Nano Breeze Reptile Cage

Purchasing a cage for your chameleon doesn’t need to break the bank, which is why we recommend the Zoo Med Nano Breeze Reptile Cage as the best budget option.

It’s hard to beat the budget-friendly price of the Nano Breeze screen cage, also from Zoo Med. The front door, which opens, is made of clear acrylic while the sides and top are mesh. It has a corrosion-resistant metal frame and a solid base, perfect for setting up a small habitat. Zoo Med makes a complementary line of accessories, including warming lights to help you create the ideal environment. Keep in mind these are sold separately, but some can be reused if you upgrade to a larger Zoo Med cage.

This is a small cage and is appropriately named Nano. It has a 10-inch by 10-inch base and is 12 inches tall. If you need a cage to get your young chameleon used to your home or a cage for travel, this is a great option. It is best to find a larger cage for long-term use, however. Chameleons need plenty of space, including space to hide from stressors.

Pros and Cons of the Zoo Med Nano Breeze Reptile Cage

Best on a Budget

Zoo Med Nano Breeze Reptile Cage

• Budget-friendly price
• Has a very solid base
• Best for young chameleons or for travel
• Front door is made from clear acrylic

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3. Best Luxury Cage: REPTI ZOO Double Hinge Glass Reptile Terrarium

If you’re happy to splurge out a bit then the best luxury option is the REPTI ZOO Double Hinge Glass Reptile Terrarium.

REPTI ZOO makes great chameleon cages and their glass terrarium is the perfect solution for those who want both a glass terrarium and a mesh-sided cage. This cage has interchangeable sides. Simply swap out the mesh sides with glass options for a different environment. The top is mesh to provide great airflow and opens for easy access. The glass front can also open, with a door to the main enclosure.

Accessibility is one of the key reasons that we think the REPTI ZOO cage is worth the higher cost. It has built-in ports for electronic cords. This allows you to run warming lamps or other accessories to make your chameleon’s environment the best it can be without risking escape. It also has a raised waterproof bottom so that you can fill the bottom with water or have room for a substrate heater, depending on the needs of your pet.

The only drawback to this product is that the instructions for changing the sides are a little unclear.

Pros and Cons of the REPTI ZOO Double Hinge Glass Reptile Terrarium

Best Luxury Cage

REPTI ZOO Double Hinge Glass Reptile Terrarium

• Best for baby animals
• Features front doors for easy access
• Top and side ventilation
• Raised bottom

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4. Best Extra Large Cage: Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium

If you’re looking for an extra large cage then we suggest the Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium.

There are 23 different sizes and dimensions available. This version is an impressive 36 inches long, 18 inches deep, and 35.5 inches high. This works for even large chameleons. It is heavy, so make sure that you have a stand or piece of furniture that is sturdy enough to hold it.

This cage is a great option for owners who want to create a realistic habitat for their pet. This terrarium is constructed from tempered glass and features a mesh top which allows for good air flow and easy access to your pets. It also features swing-out doors on the front. The manufacturer also stocks a range of accessories that are suitable for use in this product. These include light fixtures, backgrounds, and reptile carpet.

However, some customers have reported that the mesh top does not sit completely flush in one corner.

Pros and Cons of the Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium

Best Extra Large Cage

Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium

• Best for large chameleons
• 23 different sizes available
• High-quality construction
• Accessories available extra

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Choosing the Best: What to Look For

When deciding on the best cage for your chameleon and home, consider the needs of your pet as well as the space constraints that you have. Size is one of the first things that you want to look for, followed by the material of the cage, and ease of cleaning.

Size

Chameleons need plenty of space, especially when they feel nervous or stressed. It is important to give them a place to climb and explore, as well as shelters for seclusion if they need it. Baby chameleons can be happy in a small or nano habitat. As they grow, you will likely need to upgrade to a large or even extra-large cage. If you want to start with a cage that they can grow into, it may be more expensive upfront but save you money in the long run.

Material

The bottom of a chameleon cage should be solid to create a safe base that can hold the materials that make up the chameleon’s environment. The sides and top can be made of a mesh screen or glass. Mesh screens allow for more fresh airflow but can result in a stronger smell in your home. They may also be a bit flimsier overall but can still hold up to normal wear and tear. Glass-sided terrariums are more expensive and heavier, although they aren’t as likely to get bent. Just be careful that your stand or furniture can support the heavier weight since chameleon cages tend to be large.

Ease of Cleaning

Glass-front cages need extra cleaning to keep the glass sparkling clean. Not only will this make the cage more enjoyable for your chameleon, but it can also help you see and interact with them. If your cage has mesh sides, you should still wipe them down to remove any dirt or debris. Cages that have a door or opening on the bottom are very easy to clean. You can pull out the bottom tray to clean out the substrate and even add new plants or features easily.

The Different Types of Chameleon Cages: Pros and Cons Compared

The main two types of chameleon cages that are preferred by pet owners are mesh-sided cages and glass-sided terrariums.

Mesh-Sided Cage

Glass-Sided Terrarium