Benefits of Electric Fencing For Your Cattle

Some people think that using an electric fence to keep your cattle on your land and to keep predators out is wrong because it may in fact hurt your own animals. Today, we will discuss the benefits of using this method. Firstly, electric fencing, like the products sold by Redstone Supply, is far superior to barbed wire or woven wire fences because it is much safer. The electric fence sends only a small, electric pulse designed to deter the animal from wondering to close. After a while, it creates a psychological barrier in the cattle's brain, keeping them within the confines of the fence. Other options in fencing may hurt the livestock if they get close enough. 

Electric Fencing Setup

There are two main features of an electric fence setup:

1. The wire, tape, or braid fence (see our electric fencing)
2. The fence charger (or energizer) which supplies the fence with a small amount of voltage (See our fence chargers)

When considering which equipment is right for your livestock there are several features to look over and research first: The size of your cattle, the life expectancy of the fence, whether you will work with the animals inside the fencing, concerns about keep predatory animals away, and whether you use rotational grazing.

Fences can have one or multiple wires depending on these aforementioned factors. An important piece of information is as follows: if the animals get their heads between fence wires they could potentially receive a shock behind the eyes instead of in front of them, they tend to push the fence instead of pulling away. Correct wire spacing with a hot wire at the animal's shoulder height is important to keeping containing animals contained safely.

In regards to electric fencing for cattle, it is recommended to use between 2,000 to 3,000 volts. Of course this varies because voltage levels are impacted by vegetation against the fence, fence length, and type of wire. Something important to note is that 5,000 volts minimum is needed to keep predatory animals away from your livestock.

As far as chargers go, a low impedance fence charger can power a fence that deals with heavy weeds, a solid state charger is able to power a fence with light to moderate weeds, and battery/solar powered chargers are good for remote locations with no access to AC power. A fence that houses both cattle and calves requires an electric wire as the nose level of each the adults and young. Keep in mind that a standard electric fence alone should never be used as a perimeter fence, however, a high tensile electric fence makes for a great perimeter fence option (provides a physical barrier). If you also house bulls on your property, additional wires and voltage is needed because at times they can be aggressive.

Why choose an electric fence?

For starters, you can contain animals or keep them out. Also it is the most economical, easy to maintain, and offers superior livestock control when compared to other fencing methods. Being less harmful than many fence options, it will not lead to injured animals and expensive vet bills that cut into your profit. With lower costs and easy installation, it is a no-brainer to choose this route.

So all in all, I hope you have learned as to why electrified fencing is the best option to contain your cattle. With small start up costs and a lower chance to seriously injure your animals if installed correctly, there is no other option. With a quick internet search, you can compare the different companies that produce electric fencing and make an informed and educated choice on what manufacturer you will use. Each one has advantages and disadvantages, so be careful to weigh the pros and cons of every company. Thank you for your time and have a wonderful day!

Check Your Electric Fencing in 10 Easy Steps