U.S. and Uruguay cattle markets stay stable as supply tightens

In Uruguay, the weekly cattle price index slipped slightly in the week of 16‑22 June 2026, reflecting limited pasture‑fed supply and industry selectivity, while sheep prices remained firm. The Association of Cattle Consignors reported only minor price adjustments for steers, cows and heifers, with slaughter volumes rising sharply – 44,951 cattle and 6,928 sheep were processed, though annual slaughter totals remain down double‑digits from 2025.

In the United States, the USDA’s Cattle on Feed report showed 11.7 million head in large feedlots on 1 June 2026, the second‑largest historic level despite a nearly 10 % drop in new entries in May. Analysts said the high inventory results from slower animal turnover, with both entries and exits falling as producers cope with a tight replacement‑animal market. Prices for feedlot cattle remain pressured, keeping processor margins negative.

Both regions illustrate how constrained animal supply is influencing market dynamics, with producers maintaining higher inventories and modest price movements while overall slaughter volumes stay below prior‑year levels.