Electric Fence for Beef Cattle
There are several options for fencing beef cattle. Depending on a variety of
factors, the number of fence wires can vary from one to six, depending on:
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size of the cattle
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life expectancy of the fence
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whether you will brand or castrate within the enclosure
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if you are concerned about keeping out predators
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whether you use rotational grazing.
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To safely contain most beef cattle, you need a fence controller that delivers a
minimum of 2,000 - 3,000 volts on the fence line. Voltage levels are impacted
by vegetation on the fence line, length of fence and type of wire. Note: A
minimum of 5,000 volts on the fence line is required to keep out predators.
We recommend you purchase a Zareba fence controller capable of maintaining
these voltage levels.
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Use a low impedance fence controller for heavy weed conditions, long fences,
and fences using poly wire or poly tape.
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A solid state fence controller is effective with light to moderate weed
conditions, shorter fences, and fences using conventional metal wire.
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Battery and solar powered fencers are ideal for remote installations where AC
power is not available.
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Tip: A fence enclosing both cows and calves requires an electrified wire at the
nose-level height of each.
Bulls require additional wires and higher voltage, as they can be aggressive.
To learn more about fencing systems for bulls, refer to our
livestock FAQs.
Beef cattle fencing options
Recommended wire spacings for some typical beef cattle installations:
    
Use the Fence Builder™ fence planning tool
for assistance in planning your fence.
Frequently asked questions about cattle
fencing.
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