If you’re raising cattle or other livestock, you’ll need an effective way to keep them in their proper place. While there are many different fence styles on the market, electric fences are the best choice for some cases. However, they don't work in every situation. Before you decide which fence to install, take a closer look at the pros and cons of electric fences.

Should You Install an Electric Fence for Cattle?

1. Pro: Effctive Barrier

One of the biggest advantages of an electric fence is its effectiveness, especially for cattle and horses. The light shock the wires give is enough to make them respect the fence lines. This results in less broken fences and lost livestock.

2. Con: Regular Voltage Checks

A downside to electric fences is the need to maintain consistent voltage. If there are too many weeds touching the fence wire, broken insulators, or other things shorting out the fence, the voltage will become too low to be effective. An electric fence does need proper maintenance.

3. Pro: Affordability

Electric fences are one of the most affordable options on the market. The installation is fairly quick, and the supplies are inexpensive. There are some long-term costs associated with the initial installation, but repairs are usually inexpensive. The solar fence chargers today commonly have a 3 year warranty that even covers damage by lightening!

4. Con: Lack of Aesthetic Appeal

Ok, an electric fence just doesn’t offer the aesthetic appeal of wooden rail varieties, but this is not so important on “the back forty”, or areas where the visual appeal of a more decorative fence would not be even noticed.

5. Pro: Ease of Movement

Electric fencing also has the advantage of flexibility. If you need to rearrange your boundary lines or move cattle to a different section of the property, you can quickly relocate your fencing materials without much fuss. An electric fence is popular for temporary fencing.

6. Con: Power Outages

Many cattle owners with electric fences are concerned about power outages. An electric fence without power is not and “electric fence”! However for short term outages, your animals may never even notice the power is off. Another solution, especially for smaller acreages is the solar powered charges. 

If you're looking for the best way to contain your cattle, turn to Schneider Farm Fence for a wide selection of options. Based in Walnut Hill, FL, this family-owned and -operated company specializes in farm fence construction to suit a variety of properties and needs. From cattle and horse barriers to wildlife exclusion and property markers, the team will work with you to determine which material and arrangement works best for you. Request a free, no-obligation electric fence estimate today by calling (850) 516-4749, or learn more about the options online.