How long do cattle typically stay in feedyards before harvest?

Cattle typically stay in feedyards for about 4 to 6 months before they are harvested. During this time, they are fed a high-energy diet designed to promote growth and efficient weight gain. This period allows the animals to reach their optimal market weight, which usually involves intensive feeding strategies and the use of specific grains and supplements.

Choosing the timeframe of 4 to 6 months is based on the standard practices within the cattle industry, where producers aim to balance feed costs, animal health, and market timing to maximize profitability. The duration can vary depending on factors such as the breed of cattle, initial weight, and desired market weight, but generally, this range is the most common.