Cattle guards are often used where livestock may graze in open pastures and in between open fence lines. Cattle grids prevent livestock from crossing over property lines and keep them out of dangerous areas. They are a terrific alternative to cattle gates, which require management and maintenance.

Why won't cattle cross a cattle guard?

The way a cattle guard works is this: there are metal pipes that are laid in a strategic formation over a deep ditch. ... If they try to cross the cattle guard, their legs will fall down in between the pipes and they will get stuck. The cattle know this. So they generally don't try to cross cattle guards.

Do cattle guards really work?

Cattle Guards are not effective for all animals

Some animals will not be deterred or have a problem crossing a guard. ... Even small hoofed animals such as sheep and goats will usually be able to trot right across without much effort. Here, a gate has been shown to be the most effective.