LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD-TV) — U.S. feedlots are expected to show slightly lighter October and November cattle inventories as analysts anticipate modest declines in placements and marketings heading into winter. The latest pre-report trade estimates suggest on-feed totals remain below year-ago levels, signaling tighter feeder supplies that could influence pricing and marketing strategies through early 2026.
Analysts surveyed ahead of the USDA’s delayed Cattle on Feed report project November 1 on-feed inventories around 97.8% of last year, with October placements near 92.1% and marketings near 92.4%. Estimates for October 1 similarly point to softer activity, including placements at 91.2% and marketings at 95.9%, reflecting disruptions from the recent government shutdown that delayed reporting.
For cattle producers, shrinking placements may tighten fed-cattle supplies later in 2026, while steady marketings indicate continued movement despite cost pressures. Feedlots may face firmer feeder prices if numbers remain below normal levels. Lower cash and future prices may also signal that the market is ready for expansion through heifer retention and herd rebuilding.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Early estimates point to slightly tighter cattle supplies, reinforcing the need to monitor prices and timing for winter marketing.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
Disease risks remain a key factor to watch heading into fall.
September 18, 2025 03:07 PM
·
American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Danny Munch explains how the Emergency Livestock Relief Program application process differs from other USDA aid programs.
September 18, 2025 01:39 PM
·
Sen. Roger Marshall, a founding member and chairman of the Make America Healthy Again caucus, joined us with his thoughts on the commission’s latest report and the key ag-related issues.
September 17, 2025 04:36 PM
·
California rancher and former NCBA President Kevin Kester joined House Republicans on Tuesday to tout provisions in the Big, Beautiful Bill that support family ranches.
September 17, 2025 01:40 PM
·
The Fertilizer Research Act, reintroduced by Sens. Grassley, Ernst, and Baldwin, would direct the USDA to study and publish public reports on competition and pricing trends in the fertilizer market.
September 16, 2025 05:08 PM
·
Allowing year-round sales of E15 nationally could deliver billions in economic gains, according to a new study from the Renewable Fuels Association and National Corn Growers Association.
September 16, 2025 02:29 PM
·
September 16, 2025 02:25 PM
Producers may need to prepare for margin pressure in livestock feeding, while dairy farmers could benefit from stronger product demand.
September 16, 2025 12:42 PM
·
Missouri Cattle RanchHER Alda Owen joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to talk about the all-new episode of FarmHER + RanchHER, which premieres on Thursday, Sept. 19!
September 15, 2025 01:26 PM
·
