Ontario Cattle Markets Firm as Fed Prices Strengthen

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Sale Dates: November 10–11, 2025
Report Updated: November 12, 2025

Ontario cattle markets showed steady-to-strong demand across most weight classes this week, according to data from the Beef Farmers of Ontario. Fed steers and heifers led prices higher, supported by solid packer demand and firm finish weights. Meanwhile, stocker activity remained brisk as buyers competed for quality replacements heading into winter.

Fed Cattle

Fed steers traded steady to $3 higher on good demand.

  • Large-frame steers over 1,250 lbs averaged $293.25/cwt, with tops to $313.50.

  • Steers 1,001–1,250 lbs averaged $313.33, peaking at $400.00 on select lots.

  • Medium-frame steers averaged $305.40 on heavyweights.

Dairy and dairy-cross fed steers were softer, averaging $235.84/cwt for cattle over 1,250 lbs.

Fed heifers maintained strong tone and premiums for finish and condition.

  • Large-frame heifers over 1,000 lbs averaged $339.06, topping $400.00.

  • Medium-frame heifers averaged $297.66, while dairy and dairy-cross heifers averaged $216.94.
    Overall, fed-heifer averages across all frames settled near $311.68/cwt, keeping close pace with steer prices.

Cows and Bulls

Cull cows drew solid demand, averaging $175.55/cwt and topping $300.00 for high-quality lots.
Slaughter bulls sold actively:

  • Over 1,600 lbs averaged $219.57, reaching $265.70.

  • Under 1,600 lbs averaged $226.17, with tops at $325.00.

Veal Calves

The veal market remained strong.

  • Heavy calves (over 600 lbs) averaged $370.51, topping $421.00.

  • Light calves (125 lbs and under) were sharply higher, averaging $1,491.53/cwt with individual tops to $2,430.00.
    Demand stayed firm for quality dairy-type calves suited to specialized programs.

Stocker and Feeder Cattle

Stocker steers traded active and firm.

  • Steers 500–599 lbs averaged $569.95, with highs at $715.00.

  • 600–699 lbs averaged $525.08, topping $650.00.

  • Heavier feeders 900–999 lbs held around $490.00.

Stocker heifers followed a similar pattern.

  • 500–599 lbs averaged $532.75, peaking $670.00.

  • 700–799 lbs averaged $426.25.

  • 300–399 lbs averaged $577.99 as lighter grass types attracted strong interest.

Buyer competition remains solid for green cattle ideal for backgrounding, though prices eased slightly on heavy feeders as finishing pens filled.

Other Livestock

Sheep and lambs sold steady. Lightweight lambs under 65 lbs averaged $439.57, while 95–109 lb lambs averaged $323.02, topping $367.50.

Goats were firm, with kids averaging $491.04/cwt and highs to $585.00.

Sows averaged $56.64, and weaner pigs ranged from $217.70 for under 40 lbs to $58.19 for heavier weights.

Market Outlook

Overall, Ontario cattle prices reflected seasonally strong buyer activity, backed by favorable feed conditions and confidence in finished-cattle values. Fed classes remain premium, while stocker trade continues to benefit from limited supply and positive grazing prospects.

Producers are realizing excellent returns on well-conditioned cattle — a strong finish as the fall marketing season moves toward year-end.

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