US feedlot numbers grow as placements fall and marketings slow
The latest cattle on feed report from the United States Department of Agriculture shows a rise in feedlot inventories for June. Feedlots with large capacity now hold over 11.6 million head, which is slightly higher than the same time last year. This marks the second month in a row where inventory has exceeded previous levels.
Large feedlots represent most of the cattle on feed in the country, making these reports important for understanding supply trends. The higher inventory does not reflect increased cattle supply but instead shows changes in feeding patterns and market movement.
Placements of cattle into feedlots declined during May. About 1.7 million heads were added, which is nearly 10% lower than the previous year. This drop follows a strong increase in April, which was partly influenced by dry weather conditions affecting pasture use. Overall, for the first part of the year, placements are slightly lower than last year.
Marketings also declined and continues to remain below previous levels. This means fewer cattle are being sent to slaughter. Lower marketings are consistent with reduced slaughter numbers for steers and heifers, while beef cow slaughter has dropped even more significantly. Only dairy cow slaughter has increased this year.
Despite tight cattle supplies, the number of cattle staying in feedlots has increased due to longer feeding times and reduced marketings. Heavier weights are not enough to balance the lower slaughter levels.
Beef production is expected to fall this year, even as pork and poultry production rise. At the same time, consumer demand for beef remains strong despite high prices. This strong demand will continue to test the market through the rest of 2026.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jacqueline-nix