What Are Feedlots Used for?

The feedlot sector represents an intensive production system with the goal of growing and or fattening cattle until they reach slaughter weight. The feedlot sector can be further divided into growing (backgrounding) and finishing (fattening) phases.

What is the purpose of a feedlot?

Feedlots are used in beef production to ensure cattle reach a specific weight before slaughter and to provide consistent meat quality and quantity to meet consumer demand. Feedlots may also be used during poor seasonal conditions (e.g. drought) to feed animals so they can still reach market weight.

How does feedlot work?

The basic principle of the feedlot is to increase the amount of fat gained by each animal as quickly as possible; if animals are kept in confined quarters rather than being allowed to range freely over grassland, they will gain weight more quickly and efficiently with the added benefit of economies of scale.