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
AFBF Economist Dr. Faith Parum break down new survey findings on fertilizer affordability and producer sentiment heading into the 2026 growing season.
April 16, 2026 02:54 PM
·
Sen. Roger Marshall joined us to discuss rising input costs, farm support efforts, and legislation aimed at strengthening domestic fertilizer supply.
April 16, 2026 12:35 PM
·
Charly Cummings with Superior Livestock Auction joined us to discuss today’s cattle offering, market demand, and what producers should watch as they plan upcoming sales.
April 16, 2026 12:20 PM
·
David Gruchot with USDA APHIS joined us to discuss the growing threat of invasive pests and the steps individuals can take to help protect U.S. agriculture.
April 16, 2026 11:32 AM
·
Lawmakers say payments will support schools, infrastructure and public safety in rural communities.
April 15, 2026 03:10 PM
·
Risk management and diversification improve survival odds. Heidi Exline with American Farmland Trust discusses barriers to farmland access and efforts to connect the next generation of producers with retiring farmers.
April 15, 2026 03:05 PM
·
