Cattle and hog finishing margins were headed in opposite directions last week, with lean hog prices enjoying a three-week rally while cattle prices were stuck in neutral for a second week.

Nearly 900 cows are set to be euthanized by Spanish authorities fearing bluetongue after the cattle drifted for more than two months on the Mediterranean Sea while the owners searched for a buyer.

Auction markets noted firm demand and a stronger undertone last week for grazing cattle with spring now less than a month away. Auctions were in full-swing again after the previous week's winter storms.

Here's this week's update on cattle prices.

DVMs Bob Larson and Jennifer Koziol will discuss how to evaluate bulls so only those that can get a high percentage of exposed cows pregnant in a short period of time are turned out into the breeding pasture this spring.

Livestock auction markets are built on relationships, but for LMA member market owners and employees, the importance of relationships isn't limited to sale day.