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U.S. cattle placements climbed 5% in October

The USDA says 2.286 million head of cattle were placed into U.S. feedlots in October 2024.

That’s an increase of 5% from October 2023, implying larger market ready cattle supplies starting this spring.

October marketings were 1.845 million head, also up 5% on the year, while the total number of cattle on feed on November 1^st was 11.986 million head, slightly above a year ago, even as cow numbers remain low in many areas.

The numbers look neutral near-term and could be bearish long-term because of those higher placements, but that will also depend on beef demand.

Comparisons for Brownfield states:

Iowa: On Feed: 670,000 head, up 3% from November 1^st, 2023; Placements: 95,000 head, 14% higher than October 2023; Marketings: 84,000 head, 2% more than last year

Kansas: On Feed: 2.415 million head, down 4% from November 1^st, 2023; Placements: 485,000 head, 10% higher than October 2023; Marketings: 430,000 head, 5% more than last year

Minnesota: On Feed: 105,000 head, up 5% from November 1^st, 2023; Placements: 22,000 head, 10% higher than October 2023; Marketings: 16,000 head, 14% more than last year

Nebraska: On Feed: 2.59 million head, up 2% from November 1^st, 2023; Placements: 625,000 head, 2% higher than October 2023; Marketings: 495,000 head, 3% more than last year

South Dakota: On Feed: 225,000 head, up 2% from November 1^st, 2023; Placements: 70,000 head, 1% higher than October 2023; Marketings: 39,000 head, 18% more than last year