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
Kate Johnson didn’t set out to become an expert on all things cheese—but today, this
FarmHER is the owner/founder of
The Art of Cheese School where she teaches chefs at every level.
April 20, 2017 10:37 AM
· FarmHER
The Colorado ranch where Elin operates her business just happens to be the same ranch where she spent her summers as a child.
March 08, 2017 01:32 PM
· FarmHER
Growing up as a sixth-generation Iowa FarmHER, Lexi Marek’s first passion is her pigs. She started showing pigs at livestock shows early on at the young age of five.
March 07, 2017 12:30 PM
· FarmHER
Meet RanchHER Renee Strickland of
Strickland Ranch and Exporting. Headquartered in Myakka City, Florida, Strickland and her husband export cattle around the world.
March 01, 2017 05:14 PM
· FarmHER
Ten years ago, FarmHER Jen Welch started a homestead on a single acre in Buena Vista, Colorado. The original idea was to grow food for her growing family.
September 15, 2016 02:25 PM
· FarmHER
Pam Lunn of Tampa, Florida, took an unexpected journey to a life in agriculture
September 08, 2016 10:49 AM
· FarmHER
March 18, 2014 12:08 PM
·
