How to Keep Cats in a Fenced in Yard

One of the biggest challenges to letting your cat outdoors is keeping it contained within your yard. A fence alone will not work because cats can easily jump over many obstacles. To keep your cats in a fenced-in yard, you need to install metal screens that keep the cats from jumping on top of the fence. The best option is to hire a company that specializes in pet enclosures because they have experience installing the barriers and in anticipating possible weak spots. But you can install the screens yourself with some basic items from the hardware store.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • 28-inch wire garden fencing
  • Wire cutters
  • Pliers
  • U-shaped nails
  • Hammer
  • Flexible netting, optional
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the length of the fence around the perimeter of your yard with the measuring tape. Measure around any trees and structures, such as garages or sheds, near the fence as well.

    • 2

      Add an extra 10 feet to the total measurement and purchase that amount of garden fencing. You want extra fencing in case of mistakes.

    • 3

      Use the wire cutters to cut the fencing into 8- to 10-foot sections. If you find this length difficult to work with, cut it into 5-foot sections.

    • 4

      Turn the sections so that the large squares are on the bottom and the smaller rectangle pattern is on the top. Use the pliers to bend the fencing 90 degrees where the large squares and the small rectangles meet.

    • 5

      Attach the wire fencing to the fence with U-shaped nails. Hold the fencing in an inverted "L" with the large triangles against the fence and the fold in line with the top of the fence. The barrier should extend into the yard to block your cat from reaching the top of the fence. Use the hammer to install the U-shaped nails.

    • 6

      Attach the wire garden fencing around any trees or structures that your cat may climb on to get over the fence.