When it comes to securing livestock and protecting pasture land, choosing the right pasture fence is a crucial decision every farmer and rancher needs to make. Not all animals are the same, and each has its own set of unique needs and behaviors. This means that not all fences work for every type of livestock. Cattle often lean heavily on fences, requiring sturdy and durable fencing. Sheep, on the other hand, can slip through small gaps, making close-knit fencing essential. The type of fencing you use plays a big role in both containment and the well-being of your animals. In this guide, we’ll walk through the best pasture fencing options for various types of livestock, helping you make an informed decision for a safe and productive pasture.
Cattle Fencing: Strength and Durability for Heavyweights
When it comes to cattle, a pasture fence needs to be tough. Cattle are large, strong animals that often test the boundaries of their enclosure by leaning, rubbing, or even pushing against the fence. For this reason, durability and strength are top priorities when selecting a fence for cattle. A well-constructed cattle fence will keep these heavyweights secure while reducing maintenance over time.
High-Tensile Wire Fencing
- Why It Works: High-tensile wire fencing is known for its strength and resilience, making it an ideal choice for cattle pastures. This fencing requires fewer posts, which can lower costs without sacrificing containment.
- Benefits: High-tensile wire holds up well under pressure from cattle and doesn’t easily sag or stretch. It’s also low maintenance once installed, which is a huge plus for large pastures.
- Pro Tip: Adding an electric wire along the top or middle of the fence can further deter cattle from leaning on it, which extends the fence’s lifespan.
Barbed Wire Fencing
- Why It Works: Barbed wire has long been a classic choice for cattle pastures. It’s effective at keeping cattle contained and requires minimal upkeep.
- Benefits: Barbed wire is affordable, durable, and discourages cattle from pushing against it. It’s ideal for large, open pastures where cattle are kept in expansive areas.
- Pro Tip: For younger or more energetic cattle, consider spacing posts closer together or combining barbed wire with electric strands to provide an extra layer of security.
With the right pasture fence in place, cattle are kept secure and the fencing endures, season after season.
Sheep & Goat Fencing: Keeping Agile and Curious Livestock Contained
Sheep and goats bring their own set of fencing challenges. Goats are known for their curiosity and agility, often testing fences by climbing, squeezing, or even pushing against them. Sheep, while less mischievous, are smaller and can slip through wider fence gaps. When selecting a pasture fence for these animals, it’s essential to focus on close-knit fencing options that prevent escapes and keep predators out.
Woven Wire Fencing
- Why It Works: Woven wire fencing, with its tight-knit pattern, is ideal for containing sheep and goats. The smaller openings prevent these animals from escaping and deter predators from entering the pasture.
- Benefits: This type of fencing is strong, secure, and well-suited for the agility and determination of goats. Its close-knit construction makes it effective in protecting even the smallest lambs or kids.
- Pro Tip: Reinforcing the lower sections of the fence is recommended, as goats often test boundaries near the ground.
Electric Fencing
- Why It Works: Electric fencing is a practical addition for goats, providing a gentle shock that discourages climbing or pressing against the fence.
- Benefits: This option is budget-friendly and easy to install, and it can be adjusted in height to meet the specific needs of your herd. It’s especially effective when used in combination with other fencing types like woven wire.
- Pro Tip: Position electric strands at both the bottom and middle heights of the fence. This deters goats from exploring too close to the fence line and keeps predators at bay.
A well-chosen pasture fence for sheep and goats ensures that these lively and clever animals stay secure, protecting both livestock and land.
Horse Fencing: Prioritizing Safety and Visibility for Horses
Horses have specific fencing needs, making a carefully chosen pasture fence essential for their safety. Horses are large, powerful animals, yet they can be easily startled, which puts them at risk for injury if they encounter a fence that isn’t safe or visible enough. The best horse fencing solutions prioritize both containment and visibility, helping reduce accidents and keep these animals secure.
Wood or Vinyl Rail Fencing
- Why It Works: Wood and vinyl rail fences are a popular choice for horse pastures because they’re sturdy, visible, and safe if a horse runs into them. The solid rails provide a physical barrier while reducing the likelihood of injury.
- Benefits: These types of fences are visually appealing and offer great visibility for horses, which helps to prevent spooking. Vinyl rail fences, in particular, require low maintenance and hold up well against the elements.
- Pro Tip: Space the rails closely enough to deter horses from trying to reach through, which can prevent cribbing (biting) and leaning that could damage the fence.
Electric Fencing
- Why It Works: Electric fencing can be an effective secondary line of defense, especially in combination with other fencing types. It discourages horses from leaning or reaching over fences without posing a significant injury risk.
- Benefits: Electric fencing is affordable and easy to install, and it can be adjusted as needed. It’s particularly useful for horses that tend to test fences by rubbing or nibbling.
- Pro Tip: Position the electric strand at about chest height for horses to provide a clear boundary that they will respect without causing harm.
With the right pasture fence, horses are kept safe and secure, reducing injury risks and ensuring the durability of your fencing.
Poultry & Small Animal Fencing: Protecting Your Flock and Smaller Livestock
When it comes to fencing for poultry and other small animals, security is key. These animals are vulnerable to a range of predators, so a pasture fence must be designed to prevent escapes and offer full protection from external threats. For small livestock, close-knit and durable fencing solutions are a top priority.
Mesh Fencing
- Why It Works: Mesh fencing is tightly woven, creating a secure enclosure that prevents smaller animals from wandering and keeps out ground-based predators. This type of fencing is commonly used for chickens, ducks, and other small livestock.
- Benefits: Mesh fencing is sturdy and can be built to enclose the entire pasture, providing a safe and secure environment. The smaller openings also work well to prevent entry by small predators like raccoons or snakes.
- Pro Tip: Bury the mesh fencing a few inches into the ground to deter predators from digging underneath it.
Woven Wire Fencing
- Why It Works: Woven wire fencing is another effective option, particularly for slightly larger small animals or mixed pastures. The close-knit construction keeps poultry and small livestock contained while safeguarding against unwanted guests.
- Benefits: Woven wire is durable, easy to install, and can withstand the curiosity and activity of smaller animals. It’s a good choice for those needing versatile and long-lasting fencing for mixed flocks.
- Pro Tip: For added security, you can incorporate an electric strand around the perimeter to deter predators from approaching the fence.
By selecting the right pasture fence for small animals, you ensure that these vulnerable creatures stay safe and secure. This also keeps your property well-protected from potential threats.
Finding the Perfect Pasture Fence for Every Livestock Need
Choosing the right pasture fence ensures both containment and livestock safety. From the strength needed to keep cattle secure to the visibility and safety required for horses, the type of fencing plays a crucial role in livestock management and pasture protection. Understanding the unique needs of each animal is essential. For cattle, this might mean using a high-tensile fence; for sheep, woven wire; and for poultry, secure mesh fencing. With the right fence, you’re setting up your animals and your property for success.
Investing in the appropriate fence doesn’t just provide peace of mind; it also means less maintenance and more efficient farm management. If you’re ready to enhance your pasture with the right fencing solutions, ProFence is here to help. Reach out to our team of experts for guidance on choosing and installing the perfect fence tailored to your livestock’s needs.
