You’ve probably witnessed it countless times: your cat or other neighborhood cats using your fence as a launching pad to climb onto the roof or as a highway for their daily commute, and your dogs going absolutely crazy because the cats keep taunting them.
This is quite a common problem, and relocating the cats is never really a viable solution because they’ll just keep coming back or find other ways to get into your yard. But why do cats climb fences in the first place?
Well, this article will answer that and more as we explore the reasons behind why cats climb fences and what you can do to stop them.
Why do cats like to climb?
Cats are natural climbers, and they love to be up high where they can survey their surroundings. They’re also very curious creatures, so it’s not surprising that they would want to explore what’s on the other side of the fence.
Oftentimes, cats will climb fences because they’re trying to get to something on the other side, like a bird or another animal. They may also be trying to escape from something, like a dog or another predator.
There are even times when cats climb fences just to get some extra exercise.
Whatever the reason, it’s important to keep in mind that cats will continue to climb fences as long as they find a reason that’s worth their while.
And while a cat climbing over your fence seems harmless enough, it can actually lead to some serious problems. They may annoy your neighbors, get hurt by other animals, or even climb over to the street and get hit by a car.
Why should you let your cat in the yard?
You’re probably wondering why it’s bothering you that you can’t seem to keep your cat from climbing over the fence in the first place. Maybe restricting them to the indoors should solve the problem completely since they wouldn’t be able to climb over the fence if they’re not even in the yard, to begin with, right?
Actually, that’s not necessarily the case.
While it’s true that keeping your cat indoors will prevent them from getting out of your yard, it’s important to remember that cats are instinctively drawn to the outdoors. They need to be able to roam and explore, and keeping them cooped up indoors can lead to a host of behavioral problems.
So, if you can find a way to let your cat in the yard without them climbing over the fence, it’s actually in their best interest to do so.
What can you do to stop your cat from climbing fences?
Now that we know why cats like to climb, let’s take a look at some ways to keep them from doing it.
1. Install an overhead barrier or netting
One way to keep cats from climbing over your fence is to install an overhead mesh barrier or a strip of netting. This will create an obstacle that cats will have to go around, making it more difficult for them to get over the fence.
2. Use roller bars
You can also deter cats from climbing your fence by installing roller bars on top of it. These will create a slippery top that cats won’t be able to grip, making it more difficult for them to climb the fence.
3. Trim trees and shrubs
If there are trees or shrubs near your fence that cats can use as leverage to get over the fence, you may want to consider trimming them back. This will make it more difficult for cats to climb the fence from those trees or shrubs.
4. Use a motion-activated sprinkler
Another way to keep cats from climbing over your fence is to install a motion-activated sprinkler. This will startle the cat and deter them from climbing the fence. Just make sure to test the sprinkler first to make sure it’s spraying water at the targeted area.
5. Install anti-cat spikes
You can also deter cats from climbing your fence by installing anti-cat spikes on top of it. These blunted spikes will make it uncomfortable for cats to climb the fence, and they’ll eventually give up and go somewhere else.
6. Use metal fencing
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, you may want to consider using metal fencing instead of wooden fencing. Metal fencing is more difficult for cats to claw their way through, making it more difficult for them to climb over.
7. Build an outdoor run
If you have the space, you may want to consider building an outdoor run for your cat. This will give them a place to roam and explore without having to worry about them climbing over the fence. Plus, it’ll give you peace of mind knowing that they’re safe and sound in their own little space.
Final Thoughts
Cats climbing fences can be a nuisance, but the above-mentioned tips should help you keep them from doing it. Just remember to weigh the pros and cons of each method before you decide on one, and always keep your cat’s safety in mind.
So, what method have you tried or are planning to try? Let us know in the comments below!
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