Cattle-on-Feed Report
The USDA’s September Cattle-on-Feed report shows inventories remain above year-ago levels, while both placements and marketings fell to record lows for the month.
Analysts expect USDA’s September Cattle on Feed report to show fewer August placements and marketings than a year ago, even as the total feedlot inventory remains higher.
Lower feed costs are encouraging producers to keep cattle longer and add more weight.
Changing market conditions are making protection levels more attractive for some cattle producers.
July placements fell to their lowest level on record even as total feedlot inventories remained above last year.
U.S. cattle on feed totaled 11.1 million head on August 1, up 2 percent from 2025, while July placements fell 11 percent to a record low.
Mexican cattle could improve southern feedlot supplies without reversing the long-term shortage.
NCBA CEO Colin Woodall discusses USDA’s phased reopening of the border to cattle imports, expectations for feeder cattle supplies, and ongoing efforts to combat New World screwworm.
Officials plan to resume cattle imports through an Arizona port beginning Aug. 24.