13.2.2. Livestock fencing

Different types of livestock require different levels of fencing to keep them contained. Most types of fence can be used for cattle, so the main considerations for producers are factors such as expense, ease of construction and expected life of the fence.
Fence height for perimeter cattle fences should be a minimum of 1.4 metres, and heavier gauge wire and posts or electric fencing may be necessary if bulls are to be kept separate from cows during the year.
Cattle handling facilities or yards may also be necessary for loading and unloading stock for transportation and for administering health treatments, unless nearby yards can be accessed.  Yards must be strong enough (galvanised pipe, cable or strong timber) to withstand heavy usage, tall enough (1.5m minimum) to prevent escape, and clearly visible.
Fences for sheep do not have to be as tall as for cattle, but sheep have other issues such as being more susceptible to predation from dogs or foxes. Electric fences are particularly useful for discouraging predators. Barbed wire is not as effective with sheep as with cattle, as the barbs tend to become covered with wool. There are also issues with wildlife when using barbed wire in fences. Further information about wildlife-friendly fencing is available in ‘Managing your wildlife’ on page XX.
Visibility is a necessary characteristic in fencing for horses. Barbed wire should be avoided because there are many opportunities for horses to tear their hide on the barbs. High-tensile wire fences pose a threat to horses because they may become entangled in the strands. The chance of this can be decreased if high-tensile fences are made more visible by placing posts closer together, or using a thick, sighter electric tape and star picket caps. Wooden fencing is ideal for horses but is expensive to construct and maintain.