Cat activates transformer

Recently a cat managed to set off a transformer explosion which cut out electricity to a large area of Warwick and the surrounding area.
The provider, to their credit, released a media statement. I would like to know – with all our technology – how a cat can achieve this and why safety measures to stop cats, birds and suicides has not been rectified by the provider.
The fence surrounding the area is inadequate and my sympathy to the owners of their pet cat and the people in close proximity to the sub-station for the massive explosion that resulted.
I am an ex-Vietnam Veteran, I live across the road and that morning I was enjoying a coffee when a bright flash crossed my window, followed by the transformer explosion, which had me ducking and racing outside to check the situation.

Trevor Rowther
via email