However excessively fat cows were inefficient in gaining that extra condition and may actually be discounted. Previous research with feeder calves indicates that larger lots of calves sell for a higher price per pound than single lots. Some producers such as those involved with the Beef Cattle Alliance in Virginia indicated that their cull cows had greater value when sold together as a load lot. The marketing time depends on factors of health, body condition, season, and cost of retention and feeding. Cattle that have immediate health issues and have not been treated with products that have withdrawal periods could be marketed immediately.
Health problems can lead to more muscle loss or damage.
The body condition is an important aspect to consider because live value is usually based on condition. Those cattle with a BCS of 5 to 7 are the most valuable. Those cattle above BCS of 7 should be marketed if prices are good. Those with a BCS lower than 5 are candidates for further feeding. Seasonal price patterns are present because of supply and demand.