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US cattle on feed inventory dips 1% in January 2025

USDA report shows slight decline in feedlot numbers, with shifts in steer and heifer populations.

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The United States Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) has released its latest Cattle on Feed report, revealing a slight downturn in overall inventory for January 1, 2025. Key findings from the report include:

  1. Total Inventory:

    • 11.8 million head of cattle and calves on feed for slaughter market in feedlots with 1,000+ head capacity
    • 1% decrease compared to January 1, 2024
  2. Steer and Heifer Numbers:

    • 7.25 million steers and steer calves, up 1% from the previous year, accounting for 61% of total inventory
    • 4.58 million heifers and heifer calves, down 3% from 2024
  3. December Placements:

    • 1.64 million head placed in feedlots, 3% below December 2023
    • Net placements totaled 1.58 million head
  4. Weight Distribution of Placements:

    • Less than 600 pounds: 395,000 head
    • 600-699 pounds: 380,000 head
    • 700-799 pounds: 375,000 head
    • 800-899 pounds: 287,000 head
    • 900-999 pounds: 115,000 head
    • 1,000 pounds and greater: 90,000 head
  5. December Marketings:

    • 1.74 million head of fed cattle marketed, 1% above December 2023
  6. Other Disappearance:

    • 59,000 head, 2% below December 2023

This report indicates a subtle shift in the U.S. cattle feeding industry, with a slight reduction in overall inventory but an increase in steer numbers. The decrease in heifer inventory suggests potential implications for future breeding stock. Industry analysts note that these changes reflect ongoing adjustments in the beef production cycle and market demands.

The report also highlights a notable change in NASS reporting, with Minnesota now included in the "Other States" category, potentially affecting regional data comparisons with previous years.

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