Best Invisible Cat Fences in 2023

Any cat owner can agree that one of their biggest fears is losing their beloved cat. One line of defense against this is an invisible cat fence. Even if some cat parents keep their felines indoors, it’s not a guarantee that your furry friend won’t accidentally end up outside. 

Many cats need the freedom of wandering about outdoors for their welfare and environmental enrichment. We have researched and tried many different methods and tools to keep our cats safe, and one of the best is invisible cat fences.

There are not many around because most invisible fences are designed for dogs. However, we have compiled a list of the best, starting with the PetSafe Wireless Cat Containment System, followed by their Indoor Radio Fence and their  Premium In-Ground Cat Fence.  

There are also GPS cat trackers that we would recommend as an alternative to invisible fences which we’ve actually chosen as our Editor’s Pick in this article.

Our Top Picks

• Editor’s Pick – Tractive Cat Collar Tracker with Virtual Fence Feature
• Best Overall Invisible Cat Fence – PetSafe Wireless Pet Containment System
• Best Outdoor Cat Fence – PetSafe Premium In-Ground Cat Fence
• Best Indoor Cat Fence – PetSafe Indoor Radio Fence For Cats
• Best For Multiple Pets – PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence For Cats

Also in this article:

• Best budget cat fence
• Best outdoor budget cat fence
• How I test my products
• FAQs

Quick disclaimer: If you decide to purchase one of our product recommendations, we would love for you to use our referral links within the article. This helps our website maintain high-quality content, test cat products, and provide an honest expert opinion. Also, this is not a sponsored review but based on our personal tests and expertise.

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The Best Invisible Cat Fences In 2023

 

Editor’s Pick: Tractive Cat Collar Tracker with Virtual Fence Feature

I know you’re just starting your research now but if you’re finding an invisible cat fence may not be right for you, consider the Tractive Cat Collar Tracker as an alternative. Many consider this device only as a cat GPS collar, but they have an awesome feature called “Virtual fence” that is designed specifically to keep your cats within safe boundaries.

The collar allows you to set up a designated safe area for your cat to roam. If the cat leaves this safe area, you get immediately notified via the Tractive app on your smartphone. The virtual fence feature works by using GPS technology to create a boundary around a designated area.

Once the boundary is established, the cat’s Tractive collar sends location updates to the owner’s smartphone through the Tractive app. If the cat crosses the boundary, the app sends an instant alert to the owner, notifying them of the cat’s whereabouts and providing real-time location tracking so that you can quickly locate your cat.

Specifications: Tracker can fit any collar and comes in two sizes – 6.5+ lbs (mini) & 9+ lbs (regular) 

Key features:

• Designed specifically for cats
• Live tracking
• Worldwide tracking
• All-day activity monitoring 
• Location History

What we like: In my opinion, the Tractive virtual fence feature is particularly useful for cat owners who live in areas with busy streets or other potential dangers for their cats. By setting up a safe area for their pet to roam, owners can have peace of mind knowing that their cat is not venturing into unsafe territory.

Also, I feel that cats may not listen to vibrations with classic invisible fences and they can easily leave the boundary. With Tractive, you can see the real-time location of your cat which is extremely helpful! 

What to consider: A subscription plan is needed with the device, and as with any smart tech, things can go wrong from time to time. A couple of reviews do mention technical errors and issues with technical support. 

Shop now: It’s available to buy via the official website and Amazon, but I’d recommend purchasing via the official website for the extended warranty and taking advantage of their support.

Full review: Read our full review of the Tractive Tracker cat collar here.

Best Overall: PetSafe Wireless Pet Containment System

Our top pick is the PetSafe Wireless Pet Containment System. The adjustable, waterproof receiver collar is not designed specifically for cats but comfortably fits cats of all breeds and sizes. It can fit cats 8 pounds or more, and neck sizes of 6-28 inches, and the fence has a circular coverage of ½ acre. 

Specifications: ½ acre coverage fence / 6-28 inch collar 

Key features:

• Adjustable & waterproof collar 
• 2 months of lasting battery
• No-shock technology
• ½ acre coverage 
• Low battery alert 
• Extra battery pack supplied free

What we like: The receiver collar is compatible with all PetSafe Wireless Fence transmitters and the collar’s battery can last up to 2 months with daily use. When you buy the containment set on Amazon, you’ll get an extra battery pack for free. 

What I loved about the collar more is that it has a low battery indicator that alerts you to replace the battery when needed and what makes it unique is that it allows your cat to return home without being shocked whenever it crosses the boundary. 

This is great for those who want to use sound training in teaching their pets to stay in their yard. It’s just a matter of patience, time, and effort! 

What to consider: Unfortunately, since it is a wireless cat fence, the coverage cannot be extended. However, wireless fences are easier to set up. They can be installed with less time, effort, and even money, as you won’t have to purchase necessary additional tools.

Shop now: It’s available to purchase on Amazon.

Best Outdoor: PetSafe Premium In-Ground Cat Fence

Another top pick for those of us looking for an outdoor fence is the PetSafe Premium In-Ground Cat Fence. As an Amazon’s Choice product, this cat containment fence is safe, comfortable, and effective, and it caters to cats of all breeds and sizes. The receiver collar is adjustable and can fit cats with neck sizes from 6 – 11 ½ inches. 

I own a large-sized Siberian cat and it fits her perfectly. My cat doesn’t even mind the receiver on her neck! The fence’s length is up to ⅓ acre but can be expanded up to 25 acres with an additional purchase of wire and flags. The receiver collar gives a warning beep when it reaches the “Warning Zone,” if your cat continues to move beyond this, a static correction will be administered.

Specifications: ⅓ acre coverage fence / 6-11 ½ inch collar 

Key features: 

• Designed for cats of all sizes
• Waterproof
• Coverage up to ⅓ acre

What we like: A great feature of the collar is that it is waterproof. Even though my cat will try her best to stay away from water, I didn’t have to be conscious about getting the collar wet in the rain. For our felines’ comfort, PetSafe’s collar also has a stretch section so you don’t have to worry about changing the collar. However, it is advised that leaving the collar on your cat for more than 12 hours a day should be avoided.

What to consider: The tricky part with this product is installation. Because the containment system is in-ground, it is difficult to set up. I had to dig a trench using a rented machine, used a spade shovel, and then pounded it with a sledgehammer to bury the wire.

Some cats can also be choosy with collars and may be uncomfortable with PetSafe’s collar. When I tried switching the collar to my cat’s favorite collar, luckily, it was an easy fix. I punched two holes for the pair of electrodes in our collar then it was done!

Shop now: It’s available to purchase from Amazon.

Best Indoor: PetSafe Indoor Radio Fence For Cats (Transmitter Only)

Next up on our list is the PetSafe Indoor Radio Fence For Cats. Available at a very cheap and affordable price, this fence is ideal for those who want to set off-limits areas for their feline indoors. Just because we love our pets doesn’t mean we have to let them have free reign in our homes! And not every room in our homes is safe.

Specifications: 10 ft radius fence 

Key features:

• Adjustable range
• Expandable
• Best for indoor use
• Budgeted price

What we like: The PetSafe Indoor Radio Fence creates a safe environment for your cat in your home and gives owners peace of mind when they leave the house, without having to stress about what your pet might be up to when you’re not around.

To use it, you simply place the transmitter in the off-limits area of your house with up to a 10 ft radius, and when your furry friend approaches the warning area, they will receive a warning tone to deter them from coming closer. If they do go closer to the area, they will receive a small static correction. 

The transmitter is compatible with any PetSafe In-Ground receiver collar and can be used by multiple pets at home! You can also increase the radius of the fence with additional transmitters! 

What to consider: The operating range can be affected by things like metal objects. So, make sure that you place your fence system somewhere so it won’t be interfered with by other objects in your home, or move anything that could cause interference away from the area.

Shop now: It’s available to buy here on Amazon.

Best For Multiple Pets: PetSafe Stay & Play Cat Wireless Fence

Our next selection would be another high-quality PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence For Cats. It may be a little more costly than some of the other products but will surprise you with what it can do.

With the PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence, you can create an invisible dome-shaped play area that covers up to ¾ of an acre for your furry friends! It is perfect for owners who own multiple cats and other pets. It allows you to add an unlimited number of pets to the fence system.

Specifications: ¾ of an acre / 6-23 inches

Key features:

• Covers up to ¾ acre 
• Portable
• Long battery life
• Static-free

What we like: In terms of installation, the PetSafe Stay & Play fence allows you to create a secure barrier around your yard without the hassle or time of burying wires. I tried both in-ground and wireless cat fences, it’s a matter of finding the more efficient type of fence for you. But if you’re a busy person, a wireless fence system is highly suggested.

Moreover, this wireless cat fence is also portable and can be used when you travel! With its very simple set-up, this portable fence system is excellent for camping and vacation homes. The unique feature makes PetSafe Stay & Play a perfect cat GPS fence for those furballs who love to travel!

What to consider: Unlike a traditional electric fence kit for cats, this wireless fence does not use static correction if your feline passes the boundary. Instead, you can teach your furry friend to stay in the safe play area with a sound-only training mode and five levels of static on its receiver. This is great for owners who don’t like to use static correction, but if you do, it may not be the one for you.

Shop now: It’s available to buy here on Amazon.

Best Budget: PetSafe Pawz Away Cat Barrier

The best budget option by far is the PetSafe Pawz Away Pet Barrier. Not only can it be used both indoors and outdoors, but the adjustable collars also fit most cats, it is waterproof, and can be bought in variations to create mini and threshold barriers. For this review, we tried out the mini barrier. 

Specifications: 0.76 meter – 3 feet radius / 6 – 28 inches

Key features:

• It can be used indoors, outdoors, mini, and threshold
• Adjustable collar
• Affordable
• Distinct settings for multiple pets
• Easy setup and training
• Automatic safety shut-off – stimulation stops after 15 seconds

What we liked: It is used to teach your cats to avoid certain areas inside your home. Unlike in-ground fences, simply set up the barrier near the area that you want to protect then you’re good to go. One of the highlights of this product is the extremely lightweight and comfortable receiver collar of PetSafe. 

The receiver collar uses progressive static correction to find the right level for your furry friend. In terms of safety, the correction stops after 15 seconds even if your pet continues to enter the prohibited area. This feature avoids instilling fear in your pet. 

What to consider: Just like the rest of Petsafe’s invisible cat fences, the receiver collar requires batteries to work. For me, it’s more favorable because I don’t have to worry about charging the collar and barrier at night for longer usage.

Shop now: It’s available to buy here on Amazon.

Best Budget Outdoor: PetSafe Basic In-Ground Cat Fence

If you’re looking for a budget option for outdoor-only use, the PetSafe Basic In-Ground Cat Fence is your best bet. If you liked the sound of the first outdoor fence on our list, then get ready to be surprised by what this one can do! 

It has fewer features than the premium version, but it’s still really good and much more affordable. The complete system also covers up to ⅓ acre but can be expanded up to 23 acres! 

Specifications: ⅓ acre – 23 acres / 6-11 ½ inches 

Key features: 

• Adjustable & waterproof collar
• Personalized settings
• Affordable

What we like: The in-ground fence is paired with an adjustable, waterproof, and durable collar that can stand all bumps and wobbles of your feline! Unlike other cheaper invisible fence cat collars, PetSafe’s receiver collars cater to all breeds and sizes of cats. 

The collar comfortably fits cats with neck sizes of 6 to 11 ½ inches. If your cat is growing bigger, don’t worry as I can assure you that PetSafe’s collars will fit him! My cat has been using PetSafe collars for years already, and she did not complain even once!

Also, The receiver collar has different types of simulation. The collar correction can be adjusted to your cat’s temperament. It has four levels and a tone-only mode for training. However, it is suggested that you should never leave the collar on your feline for more than 12 hours per day. It’s also worth noting that the collar uses batteries and has a low battery indicator. 

What to consider: A few reviews said that the shocks didn’t deter their cat from walking past the fence, so if your cat is particularly hardy, it may not be the right choice for them!

Shop now: It’s available to buy here on Amazon.

How I Test My Products

I put the cat fences to the test at my home with my cats for genuine results, taking into account the entire product set-up, and its performance in terms of the product’s effectiveness, but also how comfortable it was for the cats and how easy it was to use for me, as well as how outdoor products weathered and how well indoor products slotted into the home setting. 

In cases where I didn’t have access to the actual cat fence to test at my home, I carefully researched and compared tons of customer reviews based on the following factors:

• Technology used
• Size and layout of your property
• Training requirements (some invisible fence systems require training for your cats to learn how to use them properly)
• Durability and consumer reviews
• Battery life and replacement costs
• Safety features
• Price

FAQs

How To Choose The Best Invisible Fence For Your Cat?

First,  you need to think about whether you want it indoors or outdoors. An indoor invisible fence for cats is used to keep your cat away from a certain area while an outdoor invisible fence for cats is used to keep your cat contained within a specific area.

Next, you have to consider if you want either an in-ground or wireless fence. In-ground fences usually take more time to set-up but a more effective solution if you want to prevent your cat from getting out of a specific area. On the other hand, even if wireless fences are more convenient and easier to use, it only covers a few acres.

Another consideration when shopping for the best invisible fence for your cat is the type of correction used. It is recommended that cat parents should use a collar that issues a vibration or sound rather than a cat shock collar fence. It still depends on your cat’s behavior.

Lastly, price range should also be considered. The best invisible cat fences for cats are usually priced between $70-$300 USD. Remember, a more expensive collar usually means that it is more durable and long-lasting, and has more features but as always check out the features and compare.

Are invisible fences safe for cats?

Yes, a team of animal behaviorists from the University of Lincoln in the UK discovered that long-term exposure to containment systems does not have a significant negative impact on the behavior and welfare of cats.

How do invisible cat fences work?

Invisible cat fences, also known as underground or wireless cat fences, work by using a combination of a buried wire or wireless signals and a special collar worn by the cat. The fence system includes a transmitter that emits a radio signal along the boundary you’ve defined for your cat and the collar your cat wears contains a receiver that detects the signal. 

When your cat approaches it, the collar emits a warning sound or vibration to alert the cat. If the cat continues to approach the boundary, the collar may deliver an unpleasant sound or mild static correction, which is generally harmless but discourages them from crossing the boundary again.

Can I use an invisible dog fence for my cat?

There are a lot more invisible dog fences on the market than cat ones. However, cats behave differently from dogs, so it’s better to get one that’s made for cats and tailored to their behaviors. Be on the lookout for technology and training methods that best suit your needs, as well as safety features, and pricing, and take the size and layout of your property into consideration, too. 

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the realm of invisible cat fences offers a promising solution for feline owners seeking to strike a harmonious balance in granting their cats some freedom while ensuring their safety and your peace of mind. 

Personally, I think Tractive is the best hassle-free option, but if you want to use an invisible fence, I highly recommend one of the products we’ve listed above to keep your cat safe and secure!

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