Baby Refusing Bottle: What to Do If Baby Won’t Drink Formula

Making sure that your baby receives the right nutrition from formula or breast milk is an important part of parenting. These sources provide essential nutrients from the start, like proteins for growth, fats for brain development, and calcium for strong bones, which are all vital for your baby's overall development during these early years.

While breastfeeding is the preferred modality of milk consumption for babies, as of 2018, 59% of infants rely on bottles for feeding. When your little one refuses the bottle, it's natural to feel concerned. Could it be the formula? The bottle? Something else entirely?

The good news is that this common issue often has a simple solution. Many parents encounter this challenge, and with a few adjustments, you can usually get your baby excited about feeding again in no time! 

In the meantime, we're here to support you. By understanding the reasons behind why your baby is refusing bottle, and learning how to address them, you can ease your concerns and avoid some of the stress that can stem from bottle feeding. Keep reading to discover the causes, solutions, and helpful tips for when your little one turns away from the bottle.

What is Bottle Aversion/Refusal?

Bottle aversion, or refusal, is when a baby repeatedly rejects bottle feeds, whether it's formula or expressed breast milk. Unlike occasional fussiness, bottle aversion is a persistent issue that can affect your baby's nutrition and growth. If your baby consistently takes less milk than expected, only feeds when asleep, or isn't gaining weight properly, it may be time to investigate further.

Many parents face this or similar challenges, with nearly 25% of parents reporting feeding-related issues with their child at some stage in their development.

Bottle aversion can arise from a variety of causes, from nipple issues to medical conditions like reflux or even feeding techniques. With so many potential factors at play, we know that it can be hard to know where to begin when it comes to finding a solution.

Identifying the Causes of Bottle Refusal

Getting to the root of why your baby is not enjoying their bottle may take some digging. Below, we explore each possible cause in detail to help you identify why your baby won't take formula.

Nipple Issues and Bottle Temperature

The type and size of the bottle nipple can significantly impact your baby's feeding experience. For example, if the nipple flow is too slow, your baby may struggle to get the milk out fast enough and lose interest. Alternatively, a flow that's too fast can overwhelm them, causing coughing, choking, or spitting up. Testing the flow rate by holding the bottle upside down can help-look for a steady drip rather than a stream.

Temperature matters, too. Some babies can be pretty picky about how warm their milk is, and most seem to like it lukewarm. If you usually serve it cold, try switching things up a bit. You might find that a warmer bottle hits the spot. So, if your baby suddenly starts turning down the bottle, it could be worth playing around with the temperature to see what works best.

Underlying Medical Issues: Reflux, Constipation

Sometimes, a baby's feeding challenges can be linked to underlying medical issues, such as reflux, constipation, or oral thrush. These conditions can cause discomfort or pain during feeding, which may lead your baby to associate bottle-feeding with a negative experience.

For instance, reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. Babies with reflux may arch their backs, cry during feedings, or refuse to eat altogether.

Constipation can also play a role in feeding difficulties. A baby struggling with infrequent or hard stools might feel bloated or uncomfortable, making it less appealing for them to take in more food. Similarly, oral thrush, which is a fungal infection in the mouth, can cause soreness and irritation, making it painful for your baby to suck on the bottle nipple.

If your baby seems distressed during or after feedings, or if you notice signs like vomiting, frequent spitting up, or fussiness, it's essential to observe their behaviour closely, as these could be signs of an underlying medical issue.

If you notice any change in your child's feeding habits, or if you notice your baby suddenly refusing bottle feeds, it is best to consult with your pediatrician to make sure that they are properly diagnosed and receive appropriate treatment.

Baby Teething

Teething is a significant milestone in your baby's development, but it can also bring about its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to feeding. As teeth begin to push through the gums, your baby may experience discomfort or pain that can make sucking on a bottle unpleasant. This discomfort often leads to sudden bottle refusal, even in babies who previously had no issues with feeding.

During the teething phase, babies can become fussier and more irritable, showing signs such as drooling and swollen gums, and you may even notice them trying to chew on just about anything. Teeth typically start poking through around the 4-month mark but can also make their entrance anytime between 3-7 months.

To help ease the discomfort associated with teething, you can offer chilled teething rings or toys or gently massage your baby's gums with a clean finger before feeding, which may make it easier for them to take the bottle.

Thankfully, teething is temporary, and with some adjustments and extra care, you can help your baby navigate this phase more comfortably!

Formula Taste

Furthermore, some babies are super sensitive to changes in flavour, especially when they're making the switch from breast milk to formula. Breast milk has that sweet, familiar taste they've grown used to, so introducing formula, which has a different flavour and texture, might throw them off a bit.

If your baby seems to be turning their nose up at the bottle, the taste might be the issue. One of the easiest ways to help them adjust is by mixing the formula with a bit of breast milk. Start with mostly breast milk and a little formula, then gradually increase the amount of formula over time. This tip also works when switching formulas or when changing formula stages!

There are also different types of formula out there, so if your baby isn't loving one kind, it might be worth trying another. Sometimes, a simple switch to a different brand or type (like goat milk formulas) can make a big difference. It might take a few tries, but most babies eventually get the hang of it.

How to Keep Baby Hydrated When Refusing Bottle

Maintaining hydration is critical, especially if your baby isn't taking in their usual amount of milk. Offering small, frequent feeds can help, as can using alternative feeding methods like a spoon, cup, or syringe for younger infants. Keep an eye on wet diapers-fewer than six in 24 hours might indicate dehydration, which means that it's time for a call to the pediatrician.

Bottle Refusal Tips for Parents

Here are some strategies that can help you navigate this phase.

1) Choose the Right Bottle and Nipple for Bottle Feeding

Finding the right bottle and nipple combination can make a significant difference. Like all of us, babies have preferences, so you may need to try several types to find one that your little one accepts. For example, newborns typically do better with a slow-flow nipple, whereas older babies may prefer a faster-flowing nipple once they get used to the feeding process.

2) Establish Consistent Feeding Times 

Babies thrive on routine. Establishing consistent feeding times can help reduce anxiety around feeding. Try to create a calm, distraction-free environment-turn off the TV, dim the lights, and hold your baby close. Observe your baby's hunger cues and avoid waiting until they are overly hungry or upset, as this can make bottle refusal worse.

3) Adjust Feeding Position

How you hold your baby during feeding can also affect their willingness to take a bottle. According to the NHS, your baby should ideally be held in a semi-upright position for bottle feeds, with their heads supported so that they can breathe and swallow comfortably.

Baby Refusing Formula: Why Might This Be Happening?

Is your formula-fed baby suddenly refusing bottle feeds? Several of the following factors could be contributing to the issue.

Gassiness

Excessive gas can make feeding uncomfortable for babies, leading to bottle refusal. Ensuring your baby is properly burped after feeds or multiple times throughout a feeding can help. There are also certain formulas available, such as HiPP Comfort Formula, which may help with controlling gas.

Not Choosing the Right Formula

Some babies have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients in their formula, such as intact cow's milk proteins. If you suspect this might be the case, talk to your pediatrician about switching to a hypoallergenic, like HiPP Hypoallergenic Formula.

How to Get Baby to Drink Formula

If your baby is struggling to drink formula, your doctor may advise the following strategies:

Consider Switching Formula

Switching to a different type of formula might be necessary. You can start by consulting your pediatrician for recommendations.

Try Adding Some Breast Milk to Baby Formula

If your baby is transitioning from breast milk to formula, mixing the two can help ease the transition. Start with a higher ratio of breast milk to formula, gradually increasing the formula as your baby gets used to the new taste.

Follow Baby's Hunger Cues

Paying attention to your baby's hunger and fullness cues can help ensure feeding times are more successful. Look for signs like lip-smacking, rooting, or sucking on their hands. Offering the bottle when your baby is calm and showing early signs of hunger can increase the likelihood of acceptance.

Key Takeaways

Research shows that infants are interactive partners in the process of bottle‐feeding, so it is important to pay attention to their cues, and in doing so, you will likely discover why they aren't feeding as they should be.

Bottle refusal is a solvable issue with the right approach. Identifying the cause, whether it's the nipple, formula, or an underlying medical issue, and making adjustments can help your baby feel more comfortable and willing to feed.

Always consult with your pediatrician if you're concerned about your baby's feeding habits or overall health. With patience and persistence, you'll find a feeding routine that works for both you and your baby!