A feedlot or feed yard is a type of animal feeding operation (AFO) which is used in intensive animal farming, notably beef cattle, but also swine, horses, sheep, turkeys, chickens or ducks, prior to slaughter.

What is a feedlot used for?

What is a feedlot? The EPA defines feedlots, or animal feeding operations (AFOs), as "agricultural operations where animals are kept and raised in confined situations...that congregate animals, feed, manure and urine, dead animals, and production operations on a small land area.

What age do cattle go to feedlots?

Beef calves are usually weaned at 8–10 months of age and can be sold for slaughter or veal production. They can be weaned at younger ages if cows are losing body condition and, in a severe drought, calves can be weaned as young as six weeks provided they are given a high protein diet.