Parasitic and infectious diseases in chameleons

Parasites are essentially creatures that feed off another animal. There are two basic types of parasites, internal ones that live inside the body (endoparasite), and external ones that live on the outside (ectoparasite).

One example of an internal parasite is roundworm. Roundworms and tapeworms are found inside the intestines.

Mites and ticks are external parasites that feed off the chameleon’s blood and cause irritable bites on the skin.

If you see any moving black or red dots on your chameleon’s skin, or worms in his feces, you need to take him to the veterinarian as these are signs of parasites.

If you take your chameleon to an exotic specialist veterinarian with a sample of his feces they can usually test this to look for any signs of parasites or worms.

There are a number of viruses that can affect chameleons, but fortunately these are not common.

Irido virus is carried by insects and can sometimes make chameleons unwell. New viruses are being discovered all the time.

Buying captive bred chameleons and choosing holiday accommodation carefully reduces the risk of infection. Try to find a carer that is happy to come to your house to care for him rather than moving your chameleon to a strange new environment elsewhere. Unnecessary moving can cause stress due to the territorial nature of the chameleon. Alternatively, it’s worth considering if you can move your chameleon’s whole vivarium to the carers house if they would prefer to care for your chameleon in their own home.

Disease risk is also a factor to consider when choosing a carer.  If your chameleon is either living in isolation, or in an isolated group, suddenly placing him in an environment where there are other chameleons is dangerous; there is a huge risk of disease spread. Wherever possible, arrange for your chameleon to be cared for at your own home rather than letting the carer take your chameleon to their own set up.

Bacteria and fungus can also be infectious. Infections need treatment from a veterinarian; act quickly if you have a collection of reptiles to try to prevent spreading! If your chameleon has been housed near other chameleons whilst you have been away it may be worth taking him to the veterinary practice for a routine health check just to be on the safe side.