Owning a cat is a rewarding experience. Cats are independent, curious, and often full of surprises. However, as a responsible cat owner, it’s crucial to recognize potential hazards in your environment that could pose risks to your feline friend. One such hazard is the backyard swimming pool. While pools are often thought of as potential dangers for children, they can also be hazardous to cats. Cats are drawn to the water but lack the necessary skills to safely navigate it. Installing a pool fence is a vital safety measure for a cat owner. It provides a layer of protection for their curious companions.
Curiosity and Water: A Dangerous Combination
Cats are notoriously inquisitive creatures. They love to explore their surroundings, often squeezing into tight spaces or climbing into places they shouldn’t. Pools, with their reflective water surfaces and potential for other interesting sights like birds or insects, can be particularly attractive to a cat. However, despite popular belief, most cats are not strong swimmers. They may enjoy a splash from a puddle or a drink from a running tap, but being submerged in deep water can lead to panic and drowning.
A pool without a barrier allows a curious cat easy access to the water. If the cat slips or jumps into the pool, it may not be able to get out on its own, especially if there are no easy steps or ledges. Cats are typically poor at climbing out of water, and the smooth sides of a pool offer little assistance. In this situation, a cat can quickly become exhausted and drown, which is why having a pool fence is crucial.
How Pool Fences Protect Cats
A pool fence acts as a physical barrier between your cat and the water. It can prevent your cat from accidentally falling into the pool or jumping in while trying to catch something of interest. Many pool fences are designed with small, tight spaces between the bars, ensuring that even the most determined or small cat cannot slip through. This barrier offers peace of mind, knowing that your pet is kept safely away from the water when they’re outside.
There are different types of pool fences available, from mesh to steel designs. A sturdy and well-installed pool fence can provide a secure enclosure while maintaining the aesthetics of your backyard. The height of the fence should also be a consideration, as cats are excellent climbers and jumpers. A fence of at least four to five feet, with no footholds for a cat to scale, is often recommended.
Dangers of a Pool Without a Fence
For cat owners, a pool without a fence poses several risks. Aside from accidental drowning, there’s the issue of temperature. In colder climates or during nighttime, the temperature of the pool water can drop significantly. If a cat were to fall into a pool, hypothermia could set in before the cat even realizes it’s in danger, further limiting its ability to swim to safety or cry for help.
Additionally, a pool's chemical treatments, such as chlorine, can be harmful to cats if ingested or if the chemicals come into contact with their skin and fur. Cats are fastidious groomers, and after being exposed to pool chemicals, they will likely lick their fur, leading to possible toxic ingestion. Even if a cat manages to escape the water, the chemical exposure could lead to illness or skin irritation.
Other Benefits of a Pool Fence
Beyond protecting cats from the immediate danger of drowning, a pool fence can also serve as a deterrent for other pets or wildlife that may wander into your yard. It can prevent unwanted animals from entering the pool area and potentially harming your pet or causing other disturbances. Additionally, a pool fence can protect young children who might visit your home. Pool fences offer an extra layer of safety for human family members and guests as well.
Moreover, installing a pool fence can be a crucial aspect of home insurance requirements. Many insurers mandate pool fences as part of their liability coverage, as they reduce the likelihood of accidents and potential claims. Therefore, investing in a pool fence not only protects your pets but also fulfills legal and financial obligations. It adds an extra layer of responsibility to your homeownership.
Choosing the Right Pool Fence for A Cat Owner
When selecting a pool fence, it’s essential to choose one that caters to the unique needs of cat owners. Look for fences9https://www.bestpoolfencehouston.com/water-safety/abcs-of-a-child-safe-pool-fence/) that are designed with small gaps and sturdy materials. Opt for a height that will deter even the most agile cat from attempting to leap over it. Also, consider self-closing and self-latching gates, which prevent a cat (or child) from accidentally entering the pool area if the gate is left open.
Additionally, ensure the fence material is weather-resistant, as it will be exposed to the elements year-round. Mesh pool fences are popular for their versatility, and steel or aluminum fences offer durability. Both types can work well for cats as long as they are installed properly and maintained regularly.
My final thoughts are this: For a cat owner, the backyard pool can be a hidden hazard. Despite cats’ independence and agility, they are not equipped to handle the dangers of deep water. A pool fence offers an essential safety feature that can prevent accidents and save lives. Not only does it provide peace of mind by keeping curious cats out of the pool. But, it also serves as a general safeguard for other pets, wildlife, and children.
By investing in a pool fence, you’re not just protecting your cat—you’re making a responsible choice that benefits your entire household. Whether you choose a mesh or steel design, the added security is invaluable in preventing accidents and ensuring that your cat remains safe while enjoying the outdoor environment.
Make Life Saver Of Houston Your Choice
For a really safe mesh pool fence, choose a Life Saver Of Houston pool fence for your feline friend. In the Houston area for nearly 15 years now, hundreds of local family's can tell you that Life Saver's pool fence is really the best pool fence to choose. These fences are sturdy, long lasting, and expertly installed.
If you are ready to install a pool fence or if you still have a few questions, call Life Saver Of Houston's owner Wayne by dialing (832)367-2377. Or, you can always email him.