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Why is my veiled chameleon not eating, falling, and puffing up?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Hi I have a veiled chameleon. Not eating or drinking... falling allot and will puff up 24/7

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Susan England-Foster

Veterinarian

Published on July 5th, 2017

I would recommend taking him to a vet as soon as possible. Most chameleons will eat every single day. If he has become anorexic I would be concerned about fungal or bacterial disease. They also can get injury to there mouth from eating which is painful and will cause anorexia. I would recommend making sure his environment is proper and he is in a low traffic area to help decrease stress. Try feeding him a special treat he loves. This might motivate him to start eating again

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2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on July 31st, 2018

    Check the temps in the enclosure. Low temps can affect appetite and activity in reptiles. Consider bumping it up by about 5 F until he is recovered. You can soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte to treat or prevent minor dehydration. Get some Fluker's Repta-Boost from the local Petco. Use it to supplement the diet and get some quick calories into Floki. Consider an exam with your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose illness or injury.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 28th, 2019

    Thanks for reaching out about Melo and including photos. If he is not eating, drinking or moving, a veterinary visit is needed. Husbandry parameters need to be checked and corrected. Trying to hand feed and offer water via a syringe could help but is not a cure. A veterinarian might need to perform diagnostic tests such as blood work, to determine a diagnosis. Good luck.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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