Electronic Fence for Cats

The Humane Society of the United States says there are more than 93.6 million pet cats in the United States. Outdoor cats are at a much higher risk of accidental injury than indoor cats, although most pet owners still let their cats outside. Electronic cat fencing can keep your beloved pet from roaming beyond the safety of your property.

  1. Features

    • Electric fences are unique in the fact that they allow you to contain your cats without the need to erect a full fence. They can be placed either above ground or buried a few inches below the surface and keep the cat from roaming too far by sending a signal to the collar when the cat strays off. Electric fences are also more economical than standard fencing and can be installed in most homes for a fraction of the price.

    Function

    • Electric fences for cats have three main components: a control box, fence wire or markers, and a collar with receiver. The control box is mounted indoors to protect it from damage and sends an electrical current through the wire. The fence wire or markers are placed along a designated boundary line on your property that the cat will be restricted to. The receiver collar fits around the cat's neck and picks up a signal from the box when the cat gets too close to the fence line, correcting him if he attempts to cross the fence.

    Types

    • Wired and wireless fences are the two main types of electric fences for cats. Wired fences have a long, continuous piece of wire that is strung along the edge of your property and keep the cat contained inside the wire circle. One wired control box can power an average of 200 feet of wire. Wireless fences have a central control unit that distributes a signal in a specific circumference around the unit. Most wireless fences have a range of approximately 150 feet.

    Cost

    • Wired fences are cheaper than wireless units, with a basic system costing approximately $100. A basic fence system includes one control box, 500 feet of wire and one collar with receiver. If your fence line is longer than 500 feet or you have more than one cat, you can purchase additional components as necessary. Wireless systems are much more costly, with a starter system including a wireless control box and one collar costing upwards of $250.

    Considerations

    • A cat should be trained how to properly use the fence before being allowed to roam on its own. Fit the receiver collar around his neck and place a regular collar and leash around its neck. Walk the cat towards the fence, slowing down as you approach the boundary. The collar will emit a tone that warns the cat it is too close. Allow the cat to walk forward and receive a correction, repeating along the entire fence line. The cat will quickly learn to stop at the boundary rather than be corrected for getting too close.