WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. cattle on feed moved higher in May as placements increased and fed cattle marketings slowed sharply. USDA says cattle and calves on feed in feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 head or more totaled 11.6 million head on May 1, up 2 percent from a year earlier.
April placements totaled 1.70 million head, up 6 percent from 2025. Net placements were 1.65 million head, with the largest weight group coming from 800- to 899-pound cattle.
Marketings were the bigger market signal. USDA says April fed cattle marketings totaled 1.64 million head, down 10 percent from last year.
Nebraska reported the largest May 1 inventory, at 2.64 million head, followed closely by Texas at 2.58 million head. Kansas was third at 2.37 million head.
The report reinforces a tight slaughter pace even as feedlot inventories remain above last year’s levels.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Higher placements lifted feedlot inventories, but slower marketings point to continued tightness in finished cattle movement.
Tony St. James RFD News Markets Specialist
March cold storage data showed generally tighter year-over-year stock levels across several key meat and dairy categories.
April 28, 2026 06:00 AM
·
K-State researchers advise producers to take action, highlighting that prevention is essential for controlling tick populations as cases spread West.
April 27, 2026 02:48 PM
·
Shaun Haney joined us to discuss rising concerns over farmland ownership in Canada, actions being considered by provinces and farm groups, and the potential impacts of tighter regulations.
April 27, 2026 01:21 PM
·
Florida’s import rule shows New World screwworm concerns are already affecting livestock movement and market conditions.
April 27, 2026 12:31 PM
·
Lower slaughter numbers reduced 2025 red meat output even with heavier cattle and hogs.
April 27, 2026 07:00 AM
·
The Supreme Court’s ruling could affect pesticide warning claims well beyond Roundup. Richard Gupton with the Ag Retailers Association joins us to explain the importance of federal pesticide labeling standards and discuss the potential impact on the ag industry and supply chain.
April 25, 2026 07:00 PM
·
