Agriculture & livestock
What is the USDA Cattle on Feed report and what are the three key metrics analysts track within it?
By Easy Money Scanner · Educational reference · Not investment advice
The short answer
The USDA Cattle on Feed report tracks placements (cattle entering feedlots), marketings (cattle sold for slaughter), and the total on-feed inventory, all key metrics analysts use to forecast future beef supply.
How it works
Rising placements signal more cattle entering the pipeline for future slaughter, while marketings reflect current supply flow; the on-feed total shows overall inventory relative to year-ago levels.
An example
A larger-than-expected placements number in the Cattle on Feed report can pressure deferred Live Cattle futures as traders anticipate increased future beef supply.
Risk & limitations
The report is released monthly and reflects past data; feedlot behavior can shift quickly with weather, feed costs, or disease before the next report.
Examples are hypothetical, not trade recommendations. US contract and regulatory references do not automatically apply in Canada. Rules, margin requirements and broker policies can change; confirm them with the relevant authority and your broker.