WASHINGTON (RFD-TV)—The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) monthly Cattle on Feed report for September showed 11.1 million head in U.S. feedlots with capacity of 1,000 head or more on September 1, 2025, down one percent from last year.
Placements in August totaled 1.78 million head, 10 percent below 2024, with net placements at 1.73 million. Marketings reached 1.57 million head, 14 percent lower year over year, marking the lowest August marketing level since the data series began in 1996.
Ahead of the report, analysts expected August placements at 88.6 to 93.4 percent of last year, averaging about 91.3 percent. The USDA’s reported figure came in on the lower end of that range, underscoring a slowdown in feeder cattle availability.
Contributing factors include fewer Mexican feeder imports, earlier marketing of lighter-weight calves, and a historically small beef cow herd. The other disappearance was 51,000 head, down six percent.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: August placements and marketings confirm tighter fed cattle supplies heading into fall. Fewer cattle on feed suggest smaller slaughter numbers this winter, which could support strong prices if beef demand holds firm.
Justin Wilson’s Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Cheese is a simple, Southern-style casserole baked until golden and bubbling for the perfect comfort food side dish.
Justin Wilson’s Hominy and Chili Casserole is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that combines canned ingredients for a comforting Cajun twist.
Tender beef shanks slow-baked with carrots, potatoes, and onions in a wine-spiked Cajun sauce—sealed in a cooking bag to lock in every bit of bold, savory flavor.
Justin Wilson’s Peanut Butter Baked Beef Brisket is a rich, tender roast slow-baked with a savory peanut butter sauce. You’ll love this bold twist on classic braised brisket, garontee!
“We’re now at again another record high, $221.51 per hundredweight for steers for 2025.”
