WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — U.S. feedlot inventories remained above last year on July 1, while slower placements and record-low June marketings pointed to changing cattle supplies. USDA reports 11.37 million head on feed, equal to 102 percent of the year-earlier level.
June placements totaled 1.40 million head, or 97 percent of last year. Net placements reached 1.35 million. Placements under 600 pounds totaled 325,000 head, while the 800-to-899-pound category led heavier placements at 309,000.
Fed-cattle marketings totaled 1.66 million head, also 97 percent of last year and the lowest June total since the series began in 1996. Other disappearance was 50,000 head, or 94 percent of 2025.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Larger feedlot supplies remain available now, while reduced placements could tighten fed-cattle numbers later.
Steers and steer calves totaled 7.12 million head, equal to 103 percent of last year and 63 percent of the inventory. Heifers and heifer calves totaled 4.25 million, or 100 percent of 2025.
The larger inventory may keep fed supplies available near-term, but reduced placements could tighten numbers later. Producers will watch slaughter pace, basis, replacement costs, and summer marketings.
The monthly Cattle on Feed report is one of USDA’s most closely watched livestock reports because it provides an early indication of future beef supplies and helps shape price expectations for cattle producers, feedlots and beef markets.
