The cats need to enjoy the outdoors

As a cat owner, I’ve always wanted my feline companions to experience the joys of the outdoors safely. For years, I researched various fencing options. I looked into everything from basic fences to fancy fence toppers. However, nothing seemed to fit my budget or specific yard layout. So I decided to take matters into my own hands and build my own cat-proof fence from scratch.

Cats roaming unsupervised is not recommended!

The thought of my beloved cats freely roaming the neighborhood without supervision fills me with dread. The potential risks are numerous and deeply concerning.

There’s the possibility they could use a neighbor’s meticulously maintained flowerbed as their personal litter box. This act would undoubtedly cause friction and resentment.

Beyond that, their natural hunting instincts are innate. Still, these instincts could lead them to harm local bird populations. This action upsets the delicate balance of backyard ecosystems.

For cat owners, living around so much wildlife can be a real headache. Our area’s got all sorts of wild animals that, unfortunately, see our smaller pets, like cats, as a meal ticket. This natural predatory instinct is a constant threat to our furry friends. So, we really need to put some solid safety measures in place to keep our cats safe from these dangers.

The prospect of them encountering vehicular traffic is even more terrifying. The idea of them being struck by a car is almost unbearable.

Outdoor cats are at a much higher risk of contracting infectious diseases. These diseases include Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), and rabies. They are also more to be exposed to parasites like fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms.

Cats can wander too far from home, get lost, or become trapped in garages, sheds, or other enclosed spaces.

And most unsettling of all, is the vulnerability they would face. This is especially true if they were to cross paths with an individual who harbors cruelty towards animals. For these reasons, ensuring their containment within a secure and enriching outdoor space is paramount.

My cat-proof fence creation

I started with a base of black metal no-dig fence panels. Each panel measures four feet high and four and a half feet wide to create a secure cat-proof fence. My property’s level terrain made it easy. I used a garden rubber mallet to pound in the posts and set the panels into the ground.

Next, I incorporated four-foot rolls of 16-gauge black heavy-duty galvanized wire mesh, with one-inch by one-inch sizing. I cut these into six-foot lengths. Then, I slightly bent the bottom and wrapped the ends around the middle spikes of the fence panels. Cable ties were used to secure the wire mesh to the panels, ensuring a sturdy, non-flexing barrier.

I attached a two-foot-tall roll of black, one-inch plastic netting to the top of the galvanized wire mesh. This completed the fence. I used cable ties for security and reinforced it with black posts from Home Resource to keep it straight. The fence now stands at a height of 7 feet. I knew the flexible plastic top of the fence would deter cats or raccoons. Its lack of sturdiness made it effective against climbing.

One side of my newly installed fence runs parallel to my next-door neighbor’s existing wood fence. I know that wood fences can pose a challenge. They are climbable for animals like neighborhood cats and raccoons.

I made the deliberate decision to place my fence in front of it. This placement was part of a larger strategy. It was carefully considered to ensure security and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the enclosure.

The Herd show no wish to escape

I initially raised my concerns about the cats venturing too far from the safety of our yard. My brother-in-law offered a surprisingly insightful perspective. He simply asked, “Why would the cats run away?” At first, I considered it a rhetorical question. But, the more I thought about it, the more profound its truth became.

The herd, it turns out, has no inclination to escape. We’ve observed them meticulously, and they show absolutely no wish to climb over the fence that encloses our property. Their contentedness within our boundaries is evident.

They have all their needs met. They have regular meals and fresh water. They enjoy comfortable sleeping spots, stimulating toys, and plenty of attention and affection. The yard itself offers a secure and engaging environment for them to explore and play.

They seem to understand that their current living situation is ideal. There’s simply no reason for them to seek something better beyond the familiar confines of our home.

This realization has brought a great deal of peace of mind, alleviating my first worries about their adventurous spirits.

Cat paradise facilities

At Cat Paradise, I’ve prioritized the well-being of our feline residents by creating an environment that fosters happiness and engagement. Their space is thoughtfully designed with a variety of stimulating activities to satisfy their natural instincts. These activities ensure the colony remains physically active. They also keep them mentally stimulated.

I’ve shared details about some of these earlier posts on Cat, Wine, Love.

• Outdoor Scratching Post: The Given Tree
• Cat Condo
• The Catio
• The Insulated Catio
• outdoor playground for cats (New, stay tuned for a post soon!)

Catnip everywhere!

Cat owners often wonder about something intriguing. Can cats get “high” from catnip and catmint growing in a garden? The short answer is yes, they can, but it’s not the same “high” that humans experience from drugs. So, it’s not a cause for concern in the way a drug overdose would be for a person.

Catnip and catmint have spread almost everywhere in the fenced garden. They have grown in nearly every nook and cranny. Check out Gardening With Cats 101: Catnip, Catmint, and Cat Grass

Best of both worlds

Veterinary professionals agree on protecting a cat’s welfare. Because of these significant risks, it is best kept in a safe, enriched indoor environment.

A cat-proof fence and post system offers an ideal “best of both worlds” approach, enabling cats to safely experience fresh air and engaging stimuli within a secure environment.

I am extremely satisfied with the cat-proof fence I have constructed. It effectively contains the Herd while allowing them to observe the world beyond. To enhance privacy, I strategically incorporated a variety of tall plants, vibrant flowers, and lush shrubs along the fence line. I am also considering adding further elements to augment its effectiveness.

Other cat-proof fencing options to consider

There are other options on the market for homeowners looking to create a safe outdoor space for their cats. 

• Fence Toppers: These are a popular and often more affordable solution for those with an existing fence. They are installed on top of the fence to prevent cats from climbing over. Examples include:
  • Pivoting Arm Systems: These have spring-loaded arms that pivot inward. This causes the cat to lose its grip. The cat safely drops back into the yard.
  • Roller Systems: These systems use spinning paddles or rollers. This design prevents a cat from getting a foothold on the top of the fence. It makes climbing over impossible.
  • Angled Netting Overhangs: This method uses angled brackets to create an inward-facing overhang. It is typically covered in a lightweight mesh or netting. This design makes it difficult for a cat to get the leverage to escape.
• Freestanding Systems & Catios: These are self-contained enclosures. They can be built in a yard, on a deck, or attached to a house. They are an excellent option for a completely secure space and come in various forms:
  • DIY Kits: Many companies sell pre-designed kits that come with all the necessary materials. These kits also include instructions. They are available in a wide range of sizes and styles.
  • Custom Catios: For a more personalized approach, some companies offer specialized services. They design and build custom enclosures to fit a specific space and aesthetic.
  • Cat Tunnels: These often connect a catio to a window or door. They allow cats to travel safely from the house to the enclosure.
• Underground or Wireless Fencing: While less common for cats than for dogs, some companies offer electronic fence systems. These involve a buried wire that defines a perimeter. A special collar gives a warning if the cat gets too close to the boundary. It also provides a mild static correction. This option may be less reliable for cats as it does not physically contain them.