The latest weekly cattle market update from Canfax reflects the continued seasonal slowdown of the cattle market.

Four feeder steer and three heifer weight categories reported prices for the week ending May 17.

Prices for steers ranged from $361.29 per cwt in the 700-800 lb category up to $469.67 per cwt. For heifers, prices ranged from $298.25 per cwt in the 800+ lb category to $349.83 per cwt in the 600-700 lb category.

There were 3,925 head of cattle sold at auction in the province, down from the 4,509 head sold the previous week of May 10.

“Demand for feeder cattle seem to be down over the week, mostly due to poor pen conditions in southern Alberta. The demand and competition for grass cattle appeared to be strong. Those improved moisture conditions over the past 30 days and a lower supply of feeder cattle supported the prices.” Provincial Cattle Specialist Fonda Froats said. She clarified the poor pen conditions are a result of the increased moisture over the last month.

Prices for Alberta cows, meanwhile, high new highs. D2 cows averaged $184.77 per cwt, an increase of $3.52 per cwt above the previous week. The price of D3 cows increased $4.77 per cwt above the prior week to average $168.77 per cwt. 

The Canfax price for Alberta fed steers for the week ending May 17 was $260.11 per cwt, a price increase of $2.13 per cwt over the previous week.