By Andi Anderson
Indiana’s cattle inventory increased in 2025, while the overall U.S. cattle population saw a slight decline. As of January 1, 2025, Indiana had 810,000 cattle and calves, reflecting a 3% rise from the previous year.
The number of cows in the state also increased by 3%, reaching 380,000 head. The 2024 calf crop remained stable at 345,000 head, showing no change from 2023.
On the national level, the total U.S. cattle and calf inventory stood at 86.7 million head as of January 1, 2025. This marked a 1% decline from the 87.2 million recorded in 2024. The number of cows and heifers that have calved dropped slightly to 37.2 million, compared to 37.4 million a year earlier.
Beef cattle numbers showed a decrease, with beef cows totaling 27.9 million head, reflecting a 1% drop from 2024. However, the number of milk cows slightly increased, reaching 9.35 million head.
The number of heifers weighing 500 pounds or more totaled 18.2 million, down 1% from the previous year. Beef replacement heifers decreased to 4.67 million head, and milk replacement heifers dropped to 3.91 million head. Other heifers, totaling 9.59 million, also saw a slight decline of 1% compared to 2024.
These changes highlight shifting trends in cattle farming, with Indiana seeing growth while the U.S. cattle population experiences a slight decline. The adjustments in beef and dairy cattle numbers may impact farmers, meat production, and dairy industries in the coming years.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-baranozdemir
Categories: Indiana, Livestock, Dairy Cattle