Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

U.S. Cattle Numbers Plummet, Prices Soar Amid Demand

1/9/2025

33 5

Summary

Story summary

U.S. cattle inventories have dropped to 87.16 million, the lowest in decades, with beef cows at 28.22 million.
Cattle slaughter fell by 3.8% in 2024, yet beef production rose by 2.0% due to heavier carcass weights.
Record-high cash cattle prices are fueled by strong demand and limited supplies.
The 2025 outlook indicates sustained high prices and challenges in herd rebuilding from tight replacement heifer supplies.

1 of 1

Story summary

U.S. cattle inventories have dropped to 87.16 million, the lowest in decades, with beef cows at 28.22 million.
Cattle slaughter fell by 3.8% in 2024, yet beef production rose by 2.0% due to heavier carcass weights.
Record-high cash cattle prices are fueled by strong demand and limited supplies.
The 2025 outlook indicates sustained high prices and challenges in herd rebuilding from tight replacement heifer supplies.