Cattle Prices Continue to Rise on Tuesday

Cattle Market Update: Tuesday's Performance

On Tuesday, live cattle futures ended the session with moderate increases ranging from 50 to 75 cents. Cash trading activity has remained subdued this week, following last week's nationwide prices of $232 to $233. Feeder cattle futures experienced another strong surge, climbing between $3.20 and $3.45 across most contracts. The CME Feeder Cattle Index advanced by $9.26, reaching $362.37 as of January 5.

At the Oklahoma City feeder cattle auction on Monday, approximately 9,266 head were sold. Feeder steers saw prices rise by $3 to $10, while heifers posted gains of $10 to $20. Calf prices also increased, up by $15 to $20.

Wholesale Beef and Slaughter Data

According to the USDA's Tuesday afternoon report, wholesale boxed beef prices declined, with the Choice-Select spread narrowing to just 17 cents. Choice cuts dropped by $2.45 to $351.25, and Select cuts slipped by 42 cents to $351.08. The USDA estimated Tuesday's federally inspected cattle slaughter at 118,000 head, bringing the weekly total to 233,000. This figure is 7,000 head fewer than last week and 9,327 below the same period last year.

Recent Cattle Futures Settlements

• February 2026 Live Cattle closed at $236.625, up $0.750
• April 2026 Live Cattle ended at $237.375, up $0.575
• June 2026 Live Cattle finished at $232.075, up $0.650
• January 2026 Feeder Cattle settled at $362.175, up $3.200
• March 2026 Feeder Cattle closed at $359.025, up $3.450
• April 2026 Feeder Cattle ended at $358.125, up $3.225