Cattle on Feed Numbers Decline in Latest Report

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The latest USDA Cattle on Feed report showed a two percent decline in total cattle and calves on feed as of February 1, compared to the same time last year. Placements into feedlots during January also fell by five percent from a year ago. The data highlighted a slowdown in fed cattle movement, with marketings dropping 13 percent compared to the previous year.

Why it matters

The report reflects the ongoing supply contraction in the cattle industry, as feedlots continue to work through historically tight cattle numbers. This has implications for beef production, prices, and the overall health of the cattle sector.

The details

The report showed approximately 11.5 million head of cattle and calves on feed as of February 1, down two percent from the same time last year. Placements into feedlots during January totaled 1.74 million head, a five percent drop from January 2025. The largest share of placements came in the 700 to 799-pound category, followed by cattle weighing under 600 pounds and the 600 to 699-pound class. Heavier-weight cattle made up a smaller portion of the total placements. Marketings during January dropped 13 percent compared to the previous year, and other disappearance, which includes death loss and other adjustments, declined eight percent to 55,000 head.

• The report covers data as of February 1, 2026.
• Placements into feedlots were measured for January 2026.