The ideal fence for your animals will typically include polypropylene mesh at the top. This material is lightweight and nearly invisible from a distance, while still being available in breaking weights of up to 1400 lbs. Poly farm animal fencing is strong enough to contain large livestock such as horses and goats while keeping deer and other large pests out. It’s also less expensive than most conventional fencing options.
The main limitation of poly fencing is that it’s not chew-proof. For this reason, you should combine it with a steel base layer to keep rodents, hogs, and chewing predators out.
For cattle fencing or to keep predators out, welded steel wire is your best bet. Wire is chew-proof and, when made from black PVC-coated steel, it is highly resistant to rust, corrosion, and UV damage. It’s available in mesh sizes with openings as small as ¼ x ¼ inch and as large as 4 inches, depending on your needs. Choose smaller sizes for predator exclusion at the base.
For a versatile fence that excludes or contains a wide range of animals, you should consider an animal fence that includes a tall poly upper section combined with a welded steel lower section. This system can exclude large animals like deer and small animals that chew. It will also cost less than alternative materials such as chain link or wood.