DTN Cattle Analysis and Recommendations

04/15/2026

Note: Futures and options are typically not good hedging tools for the cattle market. For hedging purposes in your state, check Livestock Risk Protection coverage and quotes at https://public.rma.usda.gov/livestockreports/LRPReport.aspx.

POSITIONS

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CURRENT ASSESSMENT

Following last week’s incredible rally, the live cattle complex chopped sideways throughout most of the week as traders desired to push the contracts higher but wanted to see what was going to develop fundamentally before doing so in an aggressive manner. The most recent week’s cash trade is currently undefined, with feeders passing on bids throughout the day and remaining firm on their asking prices. June live cattle is a Type 2, somewhat bullish market.

DAILY NOTE

June live cattle closed $0.35 lower at $251.07 as traders remain hesitant to be overly supportive of the complex without first seeing what’s going to develop in the cash market this week. A single bid of $248 was offered throughout the day in Kansas but no cattle have traded yet. Wednesday’s slaughter is estimated at 109,000 head — steady with a week ago but 11,000 head less than a year ago.

RECOMMENDATIONS*

There have been no hedge recommendations yet in 2025 and none are expected anytime soon, as long as cattle supplies remain tight.

*DTN recommendations are general in nature and are not intended to be specific for any particular person or farming business. The buying and selling of futures or options involves substantial risk and is not suitable for everyone. DTN accepts no responsibility for actual trades made.