CHAPTER XVIII. 



ADVANTAGEOUS SEASONS FOR MARKETING 

 VARIOUS GRADES OF CATTLE 



No attempt will be made to enlighten the cattle feeder 

 as to when he may look for a good market or a "slump." 

 The writer recognizes the fact that the best time to 

 market cattle is when the highest market price may be 

 secured, but the practical finisher of cattle understands 

 that one cannot engage in the cattle feeding business 

 and expect to strike the good market every time his 

 stock is ready for the market. There are some general 

 considerations, however, which should be fully under- 

 stood. The knowledge of these facts and the formula- 

 tion of cattle feeding practice accordingly will save the 

 novice a large amounc of needless loss. 



DEMAND FOR PRIME CATTLE 



There is usually a good demand every month in the 

 year for both light and heavy weight, strictly prime 

 cattle, for the high-class beef trade of the country; that 

 is, such as is used by the wealthier families and high- 

 grade hotels, and restaurants. Because of its use there 

 is not an unlimited demand for such beef, and, if prime 

 cattle, from which this grade of beef is cut, are offered in 

 excess of requirements, prices seek a lower level. Prices 

 for such cattle on the hoof are regulated from month to 

 month, according to the supply. During the Christmas 

 season such cattle are required in large numbers as has 

 been said in Chapter XL : "From November 23 to De- 

 cember 15 buyers for local slaughter, shipment, and 

 export are on the market until their orders are filled. 

 Exporters who buy for the foreign -holiday trade usually 

 buy most of their cattle from November 25 to 27, 



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