The US Department of Agriculture reported that cattle placements into US feedlots of more than 1,000 head during January 2026 totaled 1.736 million head, down 5% from January 2025. Most of the placements were lighter and middle-weight cattle.
Marketings reached 1.626 million head, falling 13% year-on-year due to lighter placements in previous months, less aggressive packer demand, and periodic winter weather disruptions.
Total cattle on feed as of February 1 stood at 11.505 million head, 2% below last year’s level. Overall, the numbers are supportive for cash, wholesale, and futures prices, although sustained demand will remain a key factor for continued price strength.
