The Canadian Government Railways stock pen drawing on which I based the cattle chutes shows wire fences with a single rail around the top. I like the lightness of the wire fences because they don’t detract from the herd behind. However, I’m concerned that an enclosure that small would require a rail the cattle can see so they don’t push against it.
Some poster putty and scale 2×8 enabled me to quickly mock up the alternative. The rail does create a strong horizontal line. However, being parallel to lines of the tracks, it doesn’t affect the composition too much, and if anything, it creates a stronger focus on the herd of cattle. Staining the rail will probably further soften the line. I think I may go ahead with the rails.
What do you think? Top rail or no top rail?
Pembroke:87 
@pembroke87.ca I know nothing but prefer without.
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I like the top rail
The top rail serves a purpose; to prevent cattle from pushing through the wire fence and possible trampling it to escape. Thus it is very prototypical to install it.
Steve Lucas.
I’d go with the top rail. It defines the structural elements better from a distance. I’d probably go with a 2×6 as the 2×8 looks overly large in the image. – Eric H.
I agree with EHansmann: 2×6 stained top rail.
So top rail, if stained-a little like the ramps. Maybe the 2 by 6. Colour affects our scenes so much.