As the number of cattle increased, the grasslands became overgrazed. This led to a decrease in the amount of forage available for the cattle, which in turn led to a decrease in their weight and overall health.
2. Disease
Cattle ranching also led to the spread of disease among the cattle. This was due to the close proximity of the animals, which made it easy for diseases to spread.
3. Competition from other industries
As the United States began to industrialize, other industries began to compete with cattle ranching for land and resources. This, combined with the overgrazing and disease problems, led to the decline of cattle ranching.
4. Changing market conditions
The demand for beef also began to decline as people began to eat more pork and chicken. This further reduced the profitability of cattle ranching.
5. Government policies
The government also began to take steps to reduce the size of the cattle industry. This was done through a variety of policies, including the Homestead Act of 1862, which gave free land to settlers who agreed to live on and improve it. This act led to the settlement of much of the western United States, which reduced the amount of land available for cattle ranching.