UK Slaughter Numbers Fall for Cattle and Sheep
Latest UK slaughter statistics for November 2025 show a continued year-on-year decline in cattle and sheep throughput, according to official figures released by Defra. Prime cattle slaughterings fell by 4.5%, while clean sheep numbers dropped by 13%, underlining tightening livestock availability across key red meat categories.
As a result, beef and veal production declined by 2.2%, while mutton and lamb output fell sharply by 12% compared with the same period last year. The figures reflect ongoing supply constraints and are consistent with wider market commentary pointing to tighter cattle and sheep numbers entering winter.
By contrast, the pig sector showed greater resilience. Clean pig slaughterings were down just 1.4%, while pigmeat production increased by 1.2%, suggesting improved carcase weights or processing efficiency offsetting lower numbers.
For processors, wholesalers and buyers, the data reinforces expectations of continued firmness in beef and lamb supply, while pigmeat availability appears more stable. The figures also add further context to recent price movements across UK livestock markets.
Source: Gov.uk (Defra) – UK Slaughter Statistics, 11 November 2025
(Official UK government statistics)