Cat proof fencing has become very popular in recent times. It usually works, no matter how you implement it. Your cats’ ability and motivations will be key factors in your success.
It is possible to make your existing fence cat-proof by adding wood, block, metal or vinyl. It doesn’t matter if you don’t have any fencing, or if it isn’t in good condition, it can be modified to make it cat-proof. It is possible to build a new, traditional fence, then modify it using a cat fence system, or build a custom cat fence entirely from specialty components. Each will be discussed below.
Modify Existing Fence with a Cat Proof Fence Topper
Critterfence uses a spring loaded arm, which is custom engineered and patented to match the abilities and weights of cats. This is a series of these that are placed on existing fence posts. Chicken wire or plastic netting is then stretched between the brackets. These may work well for some cats, as mentioned above. This is an option for cats that aren’t capable of or inclined to reach beyond the netting and pull themselves up over it.
You can also purchase commercially available cat proof fencing topper kits from Critterfence. These products can also be installed in a variety of ways.
Modify existing fence with a cat proof fencing roller
The cat fence top rolling devices are “coyote” rollers that have been repurposed. Coyote rollers are cylinders about the size of a pipe that are 1.5-3″ in diameter. They are attached just above the cat proof fencing system and it spins. An animal jumps up to try and climb or dig into the fence. Instead of a solid fence, they find something that spins. They lose their momentum and then fall. The commercially available rollers can be seen less than the standard cat proof fencing topper systems. There are also a couple of commercially manufactured variations. One is an offset version that goes inside the fence, and the other has a larger diameter with fins rather than a solid cylinder.
Coyote rollers work reasonably well for coyotes, and other canines, since they totally rely on their upward motion to clear a fence. Cats however have different capabilities. A cat can climb a fence, stop and hang on there with their claws. A motivated cat will learn to climb over the spinning bar, or to use it as a rolling platform. It’s dependent on the ability and determination level of the cats it is contained.
Create a Cat Proof Fencing Starting from the Ground
This is what to look at if you don’t have any fences or your existing fence doesn’t meet the criteria for cat proofing. All cat containment methods depend on the cat being unable to jump over it. The “cat proofing” must be placed high enough so that the cat is unable to jump. This requires a vertical component.
These are traditional fence bottoms, with a cat proofing component at their top. Their uniqueness lies in their ease-of-use for homeowners. They are similar in that the traditional/vertical fence components of all three offerings are almost identical. The cat-proofing roof is what makes the difference. However, they are not identical except for the top. Some fences’ lower sections are made with better materials and more thought. When it comes to cat containment, the tops of the fences are the real differentiator.