September ‘Cattle on Feed’ as expected

The U.S. feedlot inventory totaled 11.2 million head on September 1, 2024, a 1% increase from the same time last year. Placements in feedlots during August totaled 1.98 million head, 1% below last year. The average pre-report trade estimate was for a 1% decline, as well.

Net placements were 1.92 million head. During August, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 395,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 305,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 435,000 head, 800-899 pounds were 485,000 head, 900-999 pounds were 265,000 head, and 1,000 pounds and greater were 90,000 head.

Marketings of fed cattle during August totaled 1.82 million head, 4% below 2023. The average pre-report estimate was for a 3% decline.