Eye conditions in chameleons

Chameleons have extremely good eyes that see color and ultraviolet light. Chameleon eyelids are quite different to ours.

If you look at your own eye you will see that you have a big upper eyelid which comes down to cover your eye when you blink, and a much smaller lower eyelid. In chameleons the upper eyelid is smaller and the lower eyelid is bigger and stronger.

Chameleons also have a third eyelid which acts as extra protection and sweeps across the surface of the eye to clean it when they blink. Chameleons are unusual as they can move each eye independently allowing a much better view of its surroundings. This allows them to catch prey more easily and also spot predators.

The colored circle in your eye is called the iris; this determines whether the eyes are green, blue or brown. The pupil is in the center of the iris; the pupil will be black and round and can become bigger or smaller depending on the amount of light in the environment and how much light it allows into the eye.

Chameleons have round pupils as they are a species that is awake during the day. Unlike us, your chameleon can move his iris if he wants to. Chameleons have tiny bones in the white part of their eyes called scleral ossicles that help strengthen the eyeball.

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the eyelids, and is often caused by a bacterial infection.

Low temperatures in your chameleon’s house will reduce his ability to fight infection as he is unable to maintain his optimal body temperature but a balanced diet will help him fight infection.  Conjunctivitis can be sore and prevent the chameleon from opening his eyes. Not being able to see will prevent him from feeding; therefore, you may need to assist in finding his food whilst his eyes recover.

If your chameleon has conjunctivitis you should take him to the veterinarian who will prescribe treatment to help treat the conjunctivitis.

Hypovitaminosis A is caused by a diet lacking in vitamin A which can lead to swelling of the eyelids. Make sure you feed a balanced diet with enough vitamin A to prevent eye problems in your chameleon.

Any trauma to your chameleon’s eye could cause serious damage. This could happen in any number of ways. Examples would be, bedding caught in the eye or a scratch caused by a sharp object. An ulcer may form on the cornea, which is the transparent outer layer of the eye. Ulcers are very painful and in severe cases the eye could burst. If you see any abnormalities in the eye you must allow a veterinarian to examine your chameleon’s eye.

To prevent eye trauma you should check your chameleon’s house and furniture carefully for any sharp objects; cage mates can also inflict serious damage if they fight! It is advised to only house one chameleon as a pet for this reason. Remember to take extra care when handling your chameleon outside of his house. Take care when selecting a UV light for your chameleon’s house. Inferior lights can emit harmful rays which could burn his eyes.

If you suspect your chameleon has suffered trauma to his eye seek veterinary attention immediately so appropriate treatment can be provided. Eye damage is an emergency and if not treated in time your chameleon may lose his eye.